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Chapter Text

**Chapter 1: Golden Blood**

The city never slept. A strange red glow, resembling an eternal twilight, bathed the streets. The towering spires of the vampires dominated the skyline, their peaks clawing at the darkened heavens. At the base of these colossal structures sprawled the human quarters—a labyrinth of narrow alleys and dilapidated buildings. The crumbling walls bore remnants of humanity’s rebellion, slogans faded with time, calls for freedom reduced to echoes of a forgotten past.

Here, humanity clung to survival, divided between those who bowed to serve the vampires and those who dared to resist. Resistance, however, came at a price. Vampire patrols roamed the streets, enforcing their rule through fear and violence. Humans who defied them vanished, their bodies found drained of blood in the sewers—or never discovered at all. Others, pragmatic or desperate, found ways to integrate into this new world order. Sunoo was one of those, living in the more affluent human districts.

---

In a secluded corner of the Eastern Quarter, a slim figure slipped through the dark alleys. Sunoo moved with confidence, clutching a black briefcase. A long coat partially concealed his lean frame, and a hood shadowed his face. His delicate features held an unearthly beauty, as though sculpted by divine hands. Yet, it wasn’t his face that drew the vampires’ attention—it was what he carried within him: his blood.

Sunoo was one of the rare humans in the world with Rh-null blood, known as "golden blood." Its rarity made it unimaginably valuable, but that wasn’t all. His blood possessed an almost supernatural quality. When it touched a vampire's lips, it instantly transformed, tasting uniquely perfect—tailored to the deepest desires of the drinker. For a vampire, tasting Sunoo’s blood was akin to tasting paradise. It made him more precious than all the gold in the world.

This gift—or curse—had become Sunoo’s lifeline. Rather than flee or hide, he turned his blood into a commodity. But Sunoo had one unbreakable rule: he would never let a vampire bite him. That’s why he operated through vials. Not only did this system allow him to regulate his sales, but it also minimized the risk of dying from a single bite. He sold vials of his precious liquid to the wealthiest and most influential vampires for exorbitant prices. This dangerous trade allowed him to maintain a semblance of independence, an identity—but he knew he was walking a razor’s edge. Every transaction could be his last.

That night, Sunoo was on his way to one such transaction. Lee Heeseung was a young and powerful vampire from the prestigious Lee family. Wealthy, handsome, and notorious for his difficult personality, Heeseung was used to getting what he wanted—at any cost.

Sunoo reached a steel door embedded in the wall of a decrepit building. Three sharp knocks, a silent code. A slit in the door opened, revealing cold eyes that scrutinized him before stepping aside to let him in.

— “Always punctual,” a gravelly voice remarked. “Come in.”

The narrow hallway beyond was dimly lit by flickering red neon lights. The walls were covered in graffiti and claw marks—testaments to past skirmishes. Two vampire guards stood on either side, their eyes gleaming with poorly concealed hunger as they watched Sunoo. Ignoring their murmurs, he walked steadily toward a richly decorated room.

Heeseung—or Mr. Lee—awaited him, seated on a velvet-covered chair. His immaculate suit and ring-adorned fingers contrasted with the brutal sharpness of his otherwise perfect features.

— “Sunoo, my most precious treasure,” Heeseung greeted, a smile revealing his fangs. “Always a pleasure doing business with you.”

Sunoo approached the central table, placing his briefcase on it. With measured movements, he opened it, revealing three glass vials filled with deep, mesmerizing red blood. The dim light seemed to dance across the liquid’s surface as if the blood itself were alive.

— “As agreed,” he said calmly. “Three vials, half a liter in total. The price remains unchanged.”

Heeseung’s barely restrained hunger was evident as he reached out, but Sunoo closed the briefcase before he could touch them.

— “Money first,” Sunoo reminded him, his piercing gaze locking onto the vampire.

A tense silence fell. The guards edged closer, ready to act at the slightest provocation. But Heeseung broke into a cold, calculated laugh.

— “Bold as ever,” he remarked. “I admire that about you, Sunoo. You know your worth.”

A servant stepped forward, carrying a small wooden box. Opening it, he revealed a neat stack of crisp banknotes. Sunoo quickly inspected the money before nodding and handing over the vials to his client.

---

Outside and now alone, Sunoo made his way back home.

Back in his apartment—a small studio in one of the still-intact human districts—Sunoo finally allowed himself to relax. He carefully hid the money in a compartment under the floor before collapsing onto his bed. He knew his life was a dangerous game, but it was one he thought he could control.

That illusion was shattered a few hours later by a sharp knock against his window. Grabbing a knife hidden under his pillow, he cautiously approached. Pulling back the curtains, he found a young vampire perched on the railing with a mischievous smile.

— “So you’re the famous goose with the golden eggs?”

— “Get out,” Sunoo snapped, clutching his knife. “I have nothing to sell you.”

— “Whoa, put the knife away. I just want to talk. And so does Sunghoon-hyung.”

— “Sunghoon… hyung?”

A soft sound behind him made Sunoo spin around. The so-called Sunghoon was already there, leaning against the door he had silently opened and shut behind him.

— “We have an offer for you,” Sunghoon said, his grave tone resonating in the small space.

Sunoo’s heart raced. He knew he was trapped, but he wasn’t one to back down.

— “Convince me, then,” he challenged, his voice steady despite the two strangers in his home.

The younger vampire at the window laughed, while Sunghoon took a step closer, closing the distance between them. The atmosphere of the apartment seemed to constrict, every corner of the room saturated by the oppressive presence of the two vampires. The younger vampire, whose name Sunoo still didn’t know, remained casually leaning against the windowsill, studying Sunoo with insatiable curiosity—like a cat toying with a mouse. Sunghoon, on the other hand, stayed near the door, one hand in the pocket of his long black coat, his gaze piercing Sunoo with a cold intensity.

— "I don’t know what you want," Sunoo said in a calm but tense voice, tightening his grip on the knife he held. "But I don’t do business outside official transactions. And certainly not in my home."

The young vampire straightened, taking a smooth, almost fluid step forward. Each movement seemed calculated to exude a provocative charm.

— "Oh, we’re not talking business," he replied with a smile, his fangs barely visible behind his lips.

Sunoo instinctively stepped back, only to find himself trapped between the two vampires. He sidestepped to keep them both in view, but it didn’t stop the younger one from advancing further. He halted mere inches away, his cold breath brushing against Sunoo’s neck.

— "I could disarm you in the blink of an eye," he murmured, his gaze locking onto Sunoo’s with an unsettling intensity. "But I find it fascinating how tightly you cling to that knife. Do you really think it could protect you?"

— "Ni-ki," Sunghoon snapped, his patience wearing thin at the younger vampire’s antics.

Sunoo gripped the knife even harder, refusing to show any weakness. But then Sunghoon began to move as well, his steps slower, more deliberate, and far more intimidating. His dark eyes seemed to delve into the depths of Sunoo’s soul, revealing an implacable coldness.

— "It’s not your blood we want—not yet, anyway. It’s you, Sunoo."

Those words sent an involuntary shiver down Sunoo’s spine. He tried to mask his unease by raising an eyebrow, but his thoughts swirled.

— "You may have chosen the wrong target," he retorted sharply. "I’m just another human. You’re wasting your time."

— "You know that’s not true," Ni-ki countered, his eyes glinting with mischief. "No human is like you. You stand alone in a world where most kneel. You’re valuable, and not just because of your blood."

Sunghoon, still impassive, stepped closer until his fingers lightly brushed the back of Sunoo’s hand. The icy touch made Sunoo flinch, but he didn’t pull away.

— "Imagine, Sunoo," Sunghoon continued, his voice low and hypnotic. "What you could accomplish with allies like us. With me. We could protect you, elevate you above this human misery. You’d never again have to barter your life drop by drop."

Their voices and presences seemed to weave an invisible web around Sunoo—oppressive yet strangely compelling. He shook his head, as if to dispel the influence threatening to overwhelm him.

— "I don’t need your protection," he said curtly. "I’ve survived this long, and I’ll keep doing so without your help."

Ni-ki laughed, the sound light but laced with sarcasm.

— "Survive? You call this a life?" he asked, stepping closer until his hand rested lightly yet firmly on Sunoo’s shoulder. "What we’re offering isn’t your pathetic existence. It’s dominion."

The touch sent a chilling wave through Sunoo, destabilizing him. Before he could react, Sunghoon followed suit, placing a hand on Sunoo’s other shoulder, effectively pinning him between them.

— "Make no mistake, Sunoo," Sunghoon said. "We’re not asking for your opinion. This is an opportunity, and you’d do well to accept it."

Sunoo’s breath quickened, but he refused to panic. His gaze flicked between Ni-ki and Sunghoon, searching for their true intentions behind their impassive masks.

— "And what if I refuse?" he finally asked, defiant.

Ni-ki tilted his head slightly, his smile turning predatory.

— "Oh, you won’t refuse. Not once you understand what you stand to gain… and what you risk losing."

Sunghoon’s grip on his shoulder tightened slightly, enough to make it clear the threat wasn’t just in words.

— "Think carefully," he said. "We’ll return tomorrow night for your answer. Until then… consider this a promise."

Without warning, Ni-ki leaned in, his lips brushing Sunoo’s neck ever so lightly before he pulled back, leaving behind a troubling warmth. Then, both vampires vanished as silently as they had appeared, leaving Sunoo alone in the middle of his apartment, his heart pounding wildly.

The knife slipped from Sunoo’s hand as he stood frozen, unable to think clearly. One thing was certain: his life had just taken a turn he could no longer control.

Silence fell over the apartment, heavy and suffocating. Sunoo remained still, his mind racing with memories of the encounter. The cold touch of Sunghoon’s hands on his shoulders and the lingering heat of Ni-ki’s breath on his neck felt like echoes carved into his skin. He ran a trembling hand over his throat, trying to dispel the sensation.

— "Why me?" he whispered to himself.

The question haunted him. What did these two vampires truly want? Was it simply fascination with his rare blood, or did they have a darker purpose? One thing was clear: Sunghoon and Ni-ki were dangerous, but in a way unlike any vampires he had encountered before. They weren’t driven by simple hunger—they wanted *him*, for reasons he couldn’t yet fathom.

---

The next morning, Sunoo awoke from a restless sleep. The first rays of daylight streamed through the blinds, casting a soft glow across his apartment. Despite his exhaustion, he couldn’t afford to falter. Survival left no room for weakness. He grabbed his briefcase, ready to face another day of transactions.

As he opened the door, an envelope slipped to the floor. It was black, sealed with red wax bearing an unfamiliar symbol.

Warily, Sunoo picked up the envelope, turning it over in his fingers. His name was written in gold ink, in elegant calligraphy. He tore the seal and unfolded the paper inside.

*"Sunoo,
Tonight, at midnight. The abandoned theater in the East.
Don’t be late.
– Ni-ki & Sunghoon"*

A shiver ran through him. He knew he didn’t truly have a choice. Their veiled threat still echoed in his mind, but part of him was curious. Perhaps there was a way to turn the situation to his advantage. After all, he wasn’t just another defenseless human.

Chapter Text

Night fell quickly, and Sunoo found himself in front of the ruins of the old theater. The once majestic wooden doors were covered in moss and cracks. The air was heavy, charged with palpable tension. He pushed open the doors and stepped into the darkness, his footsteps echoing on the dusty floor. Inside, the central stage was lit by a gigantic chandelier, intact despite the building's decrepit state. In the middle, Ni-ki and Sunghoon were waiting for him. Ni-ki, sitting carelessly on the edge of the stage, played with a silver dagger, twirling it between his fingers. His smirk widened as Sunoo entered.

- You came, he said with satisfaction. Like a good little human.

Sunghoon, standing by an antique armchair, crossed his arms, his dark eyes piercing through the darkness.

- We trusted your intelligence, added Sunghoon. You're not the type to ignore an opportunity, it shows in your character.

Sunoo stepped forward cautiously, keeping a respectful distance.

- I'm here because you forced me, he says coldly. So tell me what you want and let's get it over with.

Ni-ki burst out laughing, a clear but provocative sound. He straightened up and slowly approached Sunoo, once again closing the distance between them.

- So direct, he murmured, raising his hand to brush Sunoo's chin. But you're much more intriguing than that, aren't you?

Sunoo pushed his hand away, his eyes flashing.

- Stop playing... Ni-ki?

Sunghoon stepped in, his voice deep and authoritative.

- We want to reach an agreement.
- An agreement? Sunoo repeated, suspicious. What kind of agreement?

Sunghoon advanced, his imposing stature dominating the space.

- We know what you're worth, Sunoo. Your blood could make us the most powerful vampires in the region. But instead of simply taking what we want from you, we prefer an alliance.
- An alliance? asked Sunoo, skeptically. Why would I trust two vampires who threatened me in my own home?
- Because we have something you don't, replied Sunghoon with an icy smile. A strength, an influence you could use to your advantage.

Ni-ki nodded, moving closer to Sunoo until their faces were only a few centimetres apart.

- And above all, because you have no other choice, he murmured, his voice soft but sharp.

Sunoo felt a mixture of anger and fascination rise up inside him. These two vampires were dangerous, but he couldn't deny their intriguing proposition.

- If I say yes, he said slowly, what does that mean for me?

An enigmatic smile lit up Sunghoon's face.

- That means you'll never be alone again.

Ni-ki placed a light hand on Sunoo's shoulder, a touch that this time was not threatening but almost... protective, but perhaps not in the right way. Even if Sunoo was "strong", he couldn't deny that this life of solitude and struggle made him sad at times. And Ni-ki had been able to read him.

- And that means, for once, you won't be prey anymore, he added with a wink.

Sunoo crossed his arms, his gaze defiant.

- I've never been a prey in this company. And, I'm still not convinced.

Ni-ki burst out laughing, while Sunghoon inclined his head slightly, as if accepting the challenge.

- Then let us convince you, says Sunghoon. The game's just beginning.

Sunoo took a step back, freeing himself from the light but unsettling touch of Ni-ki's hand. His mind was working at full speed, searching for a crack in what seemed to be a web carefully woven around him.

- I'm just waiting to be convinced, he said defiantly, skilfully masking the shiver of apprehension that ran down his spine.

Ni-ki burst out laughing once again, a clear, mocking laugh that seemed to dance on the dilapidated walls of the theater.

- I like that boldness, he says, turning to go back on stage. But I think you're underestimating just how interesting we can make your life. it'll soon be you who can't live without us, or me?

As for Sunghoon, he didn't move. He stared at Sunoo, his piercing gaze seemingly searching every nook and cranny of his soul. Slowly, he approached, his footsteps echoing heavily on the floor.

- Listen carefully, Sunoo, he said in a deep but gentle voice. We're at a turning point. What we're offering you isn't just an alliance, it's protection.

He was now standing so close that Sunoo could smell the subtle perfume emanating from him, a woody fragrance mixed with something darker, almost metallic.

- Protection from what? I just told you I'm not the prey you think I am, replied Sunoo, his defiant eyes fixed on Sunghoon's. I'm not the prey you think I am.
- Against those who won't ask your opinion, replied Sunghoon, his words falling like a sentence. Those who will not hesitate to reduce your existence to a mere reservoir of blood.

A heavy silence settled over the room, broken only by the light sound of the blade Ni-ki was still twirling between her fingers.

- Lee Heeseung, for example, added Ni-ki in a falsely casual tone, her eyes shining with mischief. Do you think he respects you? Do you think he sees you as anything other than a means to consolidate his power?

Sunoo frowned, a flicker of doubt crossing his eyes.

- He respects business, he replied, though his voice lacked conviction.

Ni-ki once again descended from the stage in one fluid leap, landing with the grace of a predator.

- Lee Heeseung respects money, he corrected. And that respect will disappear as soon as he finds a better offer... or a way to make you disappear without consequence, or a way to possess you completely.

Sunoo clenched his fists, frustration rising inside him. He hated the idea of being manipulated, whether by Lee Heeseung or by these two vampires standing before him. But he also knew they had a point.

- Why do you care so much? he finally asked, his voice tinged with a mixture of defiance and sincerity. Why don't you just take what you want from me and get it over with?

This time it was Sunghoon who answered, his tone full of surprising sincerity.

- Because you're not just another human being to us.

Sunoo looked up, caught off guard by this statement.

- And what am I, then?

Ni-ki raised an eyebrow, his smile widening as if he'd been waiting for this question all along.

- A curiosity, a challenge, a toy... and maybe more, he murmured as he approached again, his face so close that Sunoo
could feel the coolness of his breath.

Sunghoon placed a firm but non-threatening hand on Sunoo's shoulder, drawing his attention.

- You're a mystery, he says simply. And we want to solve it.

Sunoo felt a wave of heat rise up inside him, a mixture of anger, confusion and a strange form of flattery he didn't want to admit.

- I'm not a toy, he declared, his voice firmer this time.
- All right, all right, replied Ni-ki, stepping back slightly, raising her hands as if in surrender. But the real question is... do you want to be a victim or a dominator?

Sunoo remained silent, his gaze shifting from Ni-ki to Sunghoon. Their presence was overwhelming, but part of him couldn't help wondering what he could really gain from this alliance.

- Very well, he finally says, crossing his arms over his chest. I'm all ears. But if I smell the slightest trap, I'll find a way to make you pay.

Ni-ki clapped softly, a triumphant smile on her lips.

- That's the kind of answer I was waiting for.

Sunghoon, for his part, simply nodded, an indecipherable gleam in his eyes.

- Welcome to your new life, Sunoo, he says.

Sunoo knew he'd crossed an invisible line. But right now, he was ready to discover just how far that path would take him. The theater was now plunged into absolute silence, disturbed only by the distant sound of the wind blowing through the cracks in the walls. Sunoo, standing in the center of the room, could still feel the weight of Ni-ki and Sunghoon's gazes on him, even after they'd left. They'd left him with more questions than answers, an uncertainty that burned at the back of his mind. Yet he knew there was no turning back. He had accepted their proposal - or rather, he had agreed to play their game. Their proposal was simple. Sunoo was to become Ni-ki and Sunghoon's thing and enjoy endless freedom and protection, along with unlimited money. He could still continue his sales for now, but for how much longer? It was certainly interesting to be able to benefit from all this "gatuitement", you might say, but it meant becoming dependent on them. And Sunoo didn't agree with that. What surprised him even more was that the two vampires, at least Sunghoon, didn't seem the least bit interested in his blood. Sunoo really didn't understand what they had in mind.

-

Back in his apartment, Sunoo felt trapped between excitement and apprehension. He had to know more. What were Ni-ki and Sunghoon really after? Their fascination with him seemed to surpass that of Lee Heeseung or the other vampires he'd met. Was it simple manipulation? Or was there something deeper he couldn't yet grasp?

-

As the days passed, Sunoo went on with his life. It had now been 2 weeks since he'd had any dealings with his two vampires. For his part, he had continued his dealings with Lee Heeseung. There, Sunoo had met other vampires and a human. Sim Jake and Park Jay are quite nice vampires at first glance. They seemed quite receptive to what Sunoo had to say, listening without judgment. As for the human, Yang Jungwon, he was the definition of the words "adorably cute". As much in his features as in his behavior, Jungwon was perfect. What surprised him most was his relationship with Jay. Their relationship wasn't simply "vampire-human", but they were true boyfriends. Jay loved Jungwon for who he was, not just for his blood. For her part, Jungwon also loved Jay for who he was, not for his all-powerful vampire status. So, over those two weeks, Sunoo enjoyed being with them.

-

22h30. As he lay on his bed pondering his next transaction, a flashing red light caught his attention. It was a small device hidden under his table, which he used to monitor the area around his building. Looking at the screen, he noticed a familiar silhouette, motionless near the entrance. Sunghoon.
Without hesitation, he descended the stairs, his trusty knife still in hand. He didn't know why he was going down, but if he didn't, Sunghoon would be going up. When he opened the door, the vampire stood there, impassive, his black coat flapping slightly in the wind.

- What do you want?

Sunghoon inclined his head, a slight smile forming on his lips. Perhaps the first, in fact.

- I'm here to make sure you're ready.
- Ready for what?" he replied.
- To learn how to survive in our world," replied Sunghoon. And to do that, you need to understand its rules.

Forcibly, Sunghoon led Sunoo through the city to a magnificent, rather remote mansion. Outside, Ni-ki was waiting for them, lying on the top of the steps before the front door, playing with an empty flask.

- Finally! he said as Sunoo entered. I was getting bored.

Sunoo rolled his eyes but didn't answer, preferring to observe the surroundings. The mansion was huge, dark and the garden was immensely large. He knew these two were powerful, but perhaps not to this extent.

- If you want to survive in this world, you have to be more than just a merchant, began Sunghoon, approaching Sunoo.

You have to know how to defend yourself.

- And if I refuse? You've been missing for almost 3 weeks and you suddenly come back in the middle of the night to teach me how to fight? retorted Sunoo.

Ni-ki burst out laughing, leaping to her feet to face him.

- You can't refuse. Not after accepting our proposal. Now grab this and shut up

He threw a dagger at Sunoo, who caught it by reflex.

- And what am I supposed to do with this?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
- Fighting," replied Ni-ki with a toothy grin. With me. And shut up.

Sunoo barely had time to react when Ni-ki charged at him, lightning fast. The fight was unbalanced, but not completely to the vampire's advantage. Sunoo, despite his lack of training, defended himself with an agility and cunning that surprised both his opponents. It wasn't the first time he'd had to fight a vampire. After all, with the life he led, he had no interest in being weak. Sunghoon watched the duel with icy calm, intervening only to correct Sunoo's posture or give him tactical advice. Little by little, Sunoo learned to anticipate Ni-ki's movements, to use his environment to compensate for his physical weakness.

After at least three long hours of struggling against the young vampire, Sunoo stopped. It was now at least 2 a.m. and he'd had enough. Drenched in sweat, he dropped against the wall, trying to catch his breath.

- That's enough, Ni-ki... I can't take it anymore... I'm going to collapse if this keeps up.
- Not bad. You lasted longer than I thought, he said with a mocking smile. But you'd be dead in ten minutes if it was a real fight.
- Ni-ki, stop blustering. Sunoo has shown he can think under pressure, and that's more than you do sometimes, added

Sunghoon, approaching slowly, his eyes still cold as he analyzed the situation. In any case, Sunoo, I recognize that you're more cunning than I thought. That's not a bad quality.

Sunghoon then turned his back on them, starting to enter the large mansion.

- Get some rest. We'll start again tomorrow.

Sunoo closed his eyes for a moment, listening to their footsteps drift away, the silence of the night falling gently upon him. Despite his exhaustion, he couldn't prevent a tired smile from stretching his lips. This was definitely getting interesting.

-

The days stretched on, punctuated by a mixture of tension and growing familiarity. Each training session resembled a complex dance, a physical and mental test in which Sunoo learned to measure his strengths and surpass his limits. In this strange ballet, Ni-ki shone through his unpredictability. He would appear at unexpected moments, launching lightning attacks that Sunoo had to counter instantly. His verbal provocations were never lacking, but they were rarely malicious.

- So, is that all you've got? he joked after disarming Sunoo for the third time in an hour. Are you sure you're worth everything they say about you?

Sunoo, panting, picked up his knife, his muscles tense, but a smile occasionally grazed his lips. Ni-ki was irritating, of course, but he couldn't deny that this vampire pushed him to give his best. And behind his sarcasm lay a discreet but undeniable loyalty. Ni-ki seemed ready to do anything to protect Sunoo from the other vampires on the prowl, their lust whetted by the scarcity of his blood, in his opinion. At least, he seemed ready to do anything to protect his toy. However, not once had Ni-ki, or Sunghoon for that matter, tried to take Sunoo's blood by force. Admittedly, the younger of the two vampires was a little too tactile with him, but that didn't go any further than his lips on his human's neck.

- You could thank me, you know, said Ni-ki, you'll soon be able to defend yourself like a pro.
- Or die of exhaustion, replied Sunoo, wiping the sweat from his brow.

Ni-ki burst out laughing, a clear, infectious sound, before placing a hand on Sunoo's shoulder.

- Fatigue is in your head.

Sunghoon, on the other hand, was the exact opposite of his companion. Distant but always attentive, he observed Sunoo's every move with clinical precision. When Ni-ki pushed Sunoo to fight furiously, Sunghoon would intervene to correct a posture or explain a strategy. His instructions were precise, almost cold, but always imbued with a strange benevolence. He didn't just want Sunoo to survive: he wanted him to understand the world of vampires, to be able to anticipate dangers long before they arose.

- It's not just a question of strength, he explained one evening, after stopping a clumsy blow from Sunoo. In our world, it's intelligence that will save you. Always read between the lines. Never believe what someone tells you without finding out what they're hiding.

Sunghoon's teachings went far beyond the art of combat. He spoke of clan alliances, ancestral rivalries and the unspoken codes that governed vampire society. Sunoo absorbed this information like a sponge, although he knew that its complexity was sometimes beyond his comprehension.

One night, when training had just finished, the three found themselves in an old, abandoned library. The dusty shelves, full of books with tired bindings, formed an almost soothing setting. Sunghoon had set up a central table, a few armchairs and even a chess set, although it was rarely used.
Sunoo, seated in an armchair, was sipping a hot drink that Ni-ki had mocked by claiming that only humans needed comfort. Ni-ki, for his part, was sitting on the back of another armchair, absent-mindedly playing with a knife, while Sunghoon was silently leafing through an old grimoire.

Then Ni-ki broke the stillness.

- Why are you doing this, Sunoo? he asked suddenly, his light tone contrasting with the depth of his words.
Sunoo looked up, caught off guard.
- Why am I doing what? he replied, defensively.
- Why are you fighting for your independence?" insisted Ni-ki, jumping up from the armchair to stand in front of him.

You could easily let yourself be protected by a clan. A comfortable life, without all that effort. Why are you so stubborn?
The question left Sunoo speechless for a moment, and he found himself thinking of the Heeseung clan with Jay, Jake and Jungwon. He put his cup on the table and crossed his arms, thinking. Finally, he answered in a calm but firm voice:

- Because I refuse to become a pawn. My blood may be a curse, but I want to control it. Not the other way around.

A silence followed this statement. Ni-ki stared at him, his eyes twinkling as if he'd just discovered a hidden treasure. He nodded slowly, a smile of amusement and respect forming on his lips.

- Not a bad answer, he murmured. You're more interesting than I thought.

Sunghoon, who hadn't spoken until then, closed his grimoire with a sharp snap.

- A good answer, certainly, but words won't be enough, he says. What you want would require more than just convictions. Are you willing to do what it takes to keep that control?

Sunghoon's gaze was piercing, almost accusatory. Sunoo, however, didn't look away.

- I'm ready to do whatever it takes. As long as it's my choice, he replies.

Ni-ki burst out laughing, breaking the tension.

- That's it! That's it! That's what I like about you. You've got guts. And that, believe me, in this world, is worth its weight in gold. Not just your blood, he added with a wink.

From that evening onwards, the interactions between them changed subtly. Ni-ki continued to tease Sunoo, but he seemed less flippant, as if he were beginning to understand the young human's depth. As for Sunghoon, he showed increased patience in his teachings, sometimes even silent respect. They would never admit it, but something about Sunoo's attitude inspired a kind of admiration. For Sunoo, these shared moments, though strange, became a refuge in the chaos of his life. Their loyalty, unexpected as it was, represented a glimmer of hope in a world that was constantly trying to break him. He was decidedly torn between this semblance of attachment he was beginning to feel, and the desire to be a little more with his new friends in the Heeseung clan. Sunoo had increased the transactions giving Heeseung slightly more often to see him and the others. No matter what Sunghoon and Ni-ki said, he felt comfortable with them.

-

Of course, not all moments spent with Ni-ki and Sunghoon were so calm. Tensions sometimes ran high, especially when the vampires' goals conflicted with Sunoo's own. The blood-red sky seemed to reflect the tension in the courtyard of the mansion where Sunoo, Ni-ki and Sunghoon always met. The place, usually their neutral ground for training or discussion, was now vibrating with palpable hostility. The surrounding area seemed to be holding its breath, ready to explode at any moment.
It began with a remark. A harmless phrase thrown out by Ni-ki, which had degenerated into a bitter exchange.

- You don't understand what you're doing, Ni-ki hissed, approaching with a threatening step. You're playing a game far too dangerous for a human.
- And you think it's all about you, retorted Sunoo with a mixture of anger and contempt. Your arrogance is blinding you.

Ni-ki let out a cold, almost mechanical laugh, but her eyes betrayed a rising anger.

- Arrogant? Me? he growled, pointing an accusing finger at Sunoo. I protect you, I make you stronger, and this is how you repay me?
- Protect? Don't make me laugh! retorted Sunoo, his voice rising. All you're doing is using me like a toy to satisfy your boredom!

These words hit Ni-ki like a slap in the face. His smirk disappeared, replaced by a hard, almost murderous expression. He took a step forward, closing the distance between them, but Sunoo didn't retreat. Ni-ki had pinned Sunoo against the stone wall with an agile movement, his hand encircling his neck.
Sunghoon, hitherto silent, intervened, his voice low but sharp.

- Calm down, both of you. Shouting won't solve anything.

But neither Ni-ki nor Sunoo listened.

- You think you're so special, don't you? snapped Ni-ki, her tone turning venomous. You think your blood gives you power over us? Let me tell you something: if it wasn't for me, you'd be dead already.
- Dead? What do you think, Ni-ki? I don't need you, you're no good to me! I lived just fine without you before! Without you and Sunghoon hyung!

Ni-ki lost his nerve and lifted Sunoo off the ground, his fangs gleaming in the dim light.

- Don't provoke me, human, he growled, his voice low and menacing. You have no idea what I'm capable of.
- But please, Ni-ki. Devour me by force like your pitiful kind. That's all you know how to do anyway.

Sunghoon intervened again, this time with action. He grabbed Ni-ki's arm with brute force, forcing him to let go, Sunoo subsequently falling to the ground.

- That's enough, Ni-ki, he ordered, his tone icy. Don't touch him.

Ni-ki glared at him, Sunoo already on the ground.

- And you, Sunghoon hyung? he continued, turning to his companion. Why do you always defend him? Do you think he'll return the favor? He's only human, weak and ungrateful. He'll run off to his loving Heeseung hyung any chance he gets.

Sunghoon fixed his dark eyes on Ni-ki's, his expression as cold as stone.

- He may be human, but he's got more courage than you, Ni-ki, he says calmly. And you know it.
The tension rose a notch. Ni-ki took a step back, his fists clenched, his face twisted by an anger he couldn't contain.
- You're both idiots, he finally spat. Keep it up, but remember one thing: in this world, only the strong survive and the shitty die.

He turned and left, his footsteps echoing in the heavy silence that followed. Sunghoon left shortly afterwards. The young vampire sat down in a corner, alone. The moment Sunoo started to answer him, he felt the urge to sink his fangs deep into his throat and suck out all his blood to silence him.
For his part, Sunoo, still shaken, leaned against the wall to catch his breath. His hands trembled slightly, but his gaze remained determined. He wanted to be with Jungwon now, not here.

- You should have let him hit me, he murmured. Maybe that would have calmed him down.

Sunghoon approached him, his expression neutral again. He hadn't actually left.

- No, he answered simply. He would have regretted it.
- And you, why are you doing this? asked Sunoo, looking up at Sunghoon. Why are you protecting me?

Sunghoon remained silent for a moment, then placed a light hand on Sunoo's shoulder.

- Because you're worth more than you think, he finally says. But you have to learn to pick your battles.

Sunoo nodded slowly, sensing that, despite everything, a fragile but undeniable bond continued to grow between them, even in the midst of chaos.

- You doubt us, said Sunghoon.
- Maybe, replied Sunoo. How could I not doubt? You're vampires. Your nature is to manipulate and consume.

Sunghoon remained silent for a moment, then approached.

- You're right, he says finally. But our alliance is different. You're different.

He placed a light hand on Sunoo's shoulder, a gesture that seemed sincere.

- We don't want to break you, Sunoo. We want you to get stronger. Because, believe it or not, we need you as much as you need us.

For the first time, Sunoo felt a fragile but real bond forming between them. Perhaps, in this world where trust was a luxury, he could find some semblance of balance between these two complex beings and himself. But even as this bond was being built, his mind was still elsewhere.

Chapter Text

Since the argument with Ni-ki, Sunoo had distanced himself from the two vampires, truly keeping his distance. Although they hadn't known each other for long, Sunoo couldn't help but feel a certain attachment to them. Disappointed, he found solace once again with Jungwon and Jay. He tried his best to ignore the two vampires, and it was working. Sunoo only showed up to train with Sunghoon, limiting their interactions to formalities before leaving. But in the end, training for what? Sunoo no longer wanted this pact. He no longer wanted to see them. At least, not Ni-ki. Just seeing the young vampire irritated him.

-

Over the weeks, a latent tension had developed between Sunoo and Heeseung—a tension both intoxicating and dangerous. What had initially been simple transactional interactions, cold and impersonal, gradually evolved into a subtle dance. Every exchange between them was now marked by innuendos and meaningful glances. Heeseung, an influential and enigmatic vampire, seemed to take particular pleasure in blurring the lines between business and intimacy, testing Sunoo’s boundaries with calculated patience. At first, Sunoo had tried to maintain strict emotional distance. He knew Heeseung’s reputation: a formidable strategist, capable of manipulating even the strongest minds and seducing the most guarded hearts. That was precisely why Sunoo had chosen to do business with him. But despite his vigilance, he couldn’t deny a growing fascination.

Was it the way Heeseung looked at him, his dark eyes seeming to pierce into Sunoo’s deepest thoughts, or the unsettling softness of his voice—a melody tinged with quiet yet unyielding authority? Every interaction left Sunoo both frustrated and captivated. Yet, he tried to reason with himself each time. Heeseung was a vampire. A VAMPIRE.

-

6:00 PM
During yet another transaction with Heeseung, Sunoo was invited for the first time into the vampire’s luxurious apartment. The vampire, usually concise and professional, seemed strangely relaxed. He leaned against the large window in his living room, offering a breathtaking view of the city plunged into darkness. The view was both beautiful and terrifying.

“You seem tense, Sunoo,” Heeseung said, turning his head slightly, a barely perceptible smile on his lips. “Is something bothering you?”

Sunoo, who had just placed the vials of blood on the glass table, paused for a moment. He took a deep breath, trying to hide his unease.
“Nothing that concerns you, sir. I’m here to deliver what you requested, nothing more.”

The vampire smiled faintly, amusement flickering in his dark eyes. He approached slowly, his movements fluid and deliberate. When he spoke again, his voice was low, almost a whisper.
“Nothing more? You say that as if our meetings are meaningless. And please, drop all these formalities. It’s been almost six months since we started working together. I think it’s time you started calling me Heeseung. Add a ‘hyung’ to it, and I’ll be charmed.”

Sunoo felt a strange warmth rise within him—a mix of anger and confusion. He clenched his fists, avoiding Heeseung’s gaze.
“I’m just a supplier; I can’t allow myself to do that,” he replied curtly. “Anything else is just in your head.”

But he knew that wasn’t true. He knew because, despite himself, he felt that strange tension every time he was near Heeseung. And the worst part was that the vampire seemed fully aware of it. Heeseung raised his hands in mock surrender.
“Alright, alright. But I insist you call me by my name. I sincerely want to break down this wall between us,” he replied. “It’ll be more comfortable for both of us, and I won’t feel like I’m consuming the blood of a total stranger. Don’t you agree, Sunoo?”

And so, the young human relented. This closeness shattered, over and over again, the barriers he had struggled to protect within himself.

-

The following days were marked by subtle but inevitable changes. Heeseung found excuses to prolong their interactions, sometimes inviting Sunoo to sit for a while in his luxurious apartment. Occasionally, he would ask unexpected questions, questions that felt far too personal to be innocent.
“Tell me, Sunoo,” he asked one day, pouring a glass of wine he never drank. “How do you manage to stay so… indifferent? Aren’t you tired of always being on guard?”
Sunoo looked up, surprised by the question. “It’s what it takes to survive in this world. You should know that better than anyone, hyung.”
Heeseung chuckled softly, a sound almost hypnotic. “Oh, I do. But surviving isn’t living, you know.”

Those words lingered in Sunoo’s mind long after their meeting. Why did Heeseung seem so interested in his inner life? Why was he so intent on digging beneath the surface? These questions haunted him, and despite himself, he began to look forward to their encounters with growing nervousness but also a certain excitement. Heeseung was so different from Sunghoon and Ni-ki. Heeseung seemed kind and considerate toward him. He seemed genuinely invested in his life. Had Sunoo made the wrong choice in allying with Sunghoon and Ni-ki?
“Yes. And I know that better than anyone, hyung.”

-

An evening, when Sunoo returned home from a training session with Sunghoon and Ni-ki, he found a letter slipped under the door of his apartment. The elegant handwriting and black ink made it clear it was from Heeseung. There was no doubt. The invitation was simple yet direct: a private dinner at his manor, with no further explanation.

Sunoo appeared to think about it for a good hour. Fortunately, there was no specified time. And against all logic, Sunoo accepted. Perhaps it was curiosity, or perhaps it was a need to understand Heeseung’s true intentions. The young human took a shower, then tried to dress appropriately. He needed to find something that didn’t scream “transaction.” He settled on a simple pair of black jeans and a stylish black turtleneck. Better to play it safe, right?

When he arrived at the manor, Heeseung welcomed him into a richly decorated living room where a fire crackled softly in a stone fireplace. A table was set for two, illuminated by the warm glow of candles. The atmosphere was intimate, almost surreal.
“Thank you for coming,” said Heeseung, an enigmatic smile on his lips, as he let Sunoo in and took his coat. “Tonight, there are no transactions. Just you and me.”
Sunoo frowned, wary. “Why do this? What do you want, hyung?”
The vampire approached slowly, placing a light hand on the back of Sunoo’s chair. “Maybe I just want to know you better. Is that so hard to believe?”

Sunoo hesitated, trying to read his eyes. But as always, Heeseung was a master at concealing his true intentions.
During dinner, Sunoo began to let his guard down slightly. The conversation was smooth, almost pleasant, and Heeseung was surprisingly attentive. Moreover, the meal was delicious. Sunoo was used to good food, but he had to admit this dinner was exquisite. However, the most unsettling moment came when the vampire suddenly stood up and approached Sunoo with deliberate slowness.
“Can I ask you a question?” he asked, his voice barely audible.
Sunoo felt his heart quicken. “What question?”
Heeseung tilted his head slightly, his piercing gaze locking onto Sunoo. “Why do you fight so hard to keep your distance?”

Before Sunoo could answer, Heeseung reached out, gently brushing the human’s cheek. The touch was cold but strangely soothing. Sunoo remained motionless, unable to move, a hint of fear in his eyes.
“I won’t force you. Never,” Heeseung murmured, his eyes fixed intensely on Sunoo’s as his hand reached toward the human’s neck, still covered by the turtleneck. “But I think you’re afraid of something that might not even exist. Let yourself go with me, Sunoo.”

It was in that moment that Sunoo realized he had fallen into a far more intricate trap than he had imagined. This wasn’t just about dominance or manipulation. It was a dance between two beings, where power and vulnerability were inextricably intertwined.

After that unsettling evening, Sunoo left Heeseung’s manor with a strange sensation oscillating between unease and excitement. The vampire’s icy touch, the words whispered with an almost human tenderness—all of it haunted him. He knew he should run, end this ambiguous relationship before it took an even more dangerous turn. But part of him, the part he was desperately trying to ignore, wanted to see how far this game could go.

However, what Sunoo didn’t know was that a pair of blood-red eyes had been watching his every move, with a particularly clenched fist.

-

A few days later, another invitation arrived, this time for a walk in Heeseung’s private garden. Sunoo hesitated for a long time before accepting. The memory of the dinner still weighed on him, but he convinced himself that refusing might arouse even more suspicion. When he arrived, the vampire was already waiting for him, dressed in a black coat, perfectly at ease under the pale glow of the moon.
“I’m glad you came,” Heeseung said with that smile that seemed capable of disarming anyone.
Sunoo responded with calculated reserve. “I’m not sure it’s a good idea for you to invite me like this, hyung. This goes beyond the relationship we’re supposed to have.”
Heeseung began to walk slowly, gesturing for Sunoo to follow. “And yet, you’re here. Perhaps part of you knows I mean you no harm.”

The silence that followed was broken only by the rustling of leaves under their steps. Despite his wariness, Sunoo found himself appreciating the moment. It was rare for him to feel such a strange tranquility in the presence of a vampire. But he knew this peace was an illusion, a carefully woven web meant to ensnare him.

The conversation that evening veered toward more personal topics. Heeseung seemed eager to know everything about Sunoo: his dreams, his fears, his aspirations. At first, Sunoo replied with generalities, avoiding revealing too much. Of course, Sunoo had dreams. He had always loved dancing and singing. If it were possible in this world, he would have liked to become a star.

But little by little, Heeseung’s questions became more pointed.
“You don’t trust anyone, do you?” he asked suddenly, stopping to face Sunoo.
“Why should I?” Sunoo replied, his tone sharper than he intended. “In this world, trusting someone is as good as signing your death warrant.”
Heeseung stepped closer then, narrowing the distance between them to just a few centimeters. “Maybe,” he murmured. “Or maybe trusting the right person could save you.”

Those words unsettled something within Sunoo. He looked away, unable to hold the vampire’s intense gaze. Once again, he felt his internal defenses begin to crack.
“Are you suggesting I should trust you, hyung?” he murmured.
“It’s not me saying it, Sunoo.”

-

After that encounter, Sunoo spent sleepless nights analyzing every word, every gesture from Heeseung. He hated himself for the unhealthy curiosity driving him to understand the vampire’s intentions. Why was Heeseung so interested in him? Was it simply his unique blood that attracted him, or was there something else—something more genuine? No. That second possibility was absurd. It was obvious that Heeseung saw Sunoo as nothing more than a walking blood bank. Yet, the more he thought about it, the more trapped he felt. His growing fascination with Heeseung terrified him. He knew that getting closer to the vampire was like playing with fire, but he couldn’t fully turn away. This ambivalence ate away at him. And deep down, Sunoo hoped that the second possibility wasn’t so grotesque after all.

Still, Sunoo wasn’t naive. He knew Heeseung was a master manipulator. Every word, every action seemed calculated to provoke a reaction. But this awareness didn’t shield him from the vampire’s influence. On the contrary, it sent him spiraling into self-doubt: were his thoughts and decisions truly his own, or the result of Heeseung’s subtle machinations?

-

Over time, this ambiguous relationship began to affect Sunoo’s vigilance. He started seeing threats where there were none and even began doubting his allies. He wondered if Heeseung was playing a double game, using their budding connection to isolate him. This constant suspicion kept him on edge, but it also wore him down. Sunoo even started to distrust Jungwon and Jay, despite how much he adored the couple. Jungwon had always been like the best friend Sunoo never had, and even he could sense something was off between Sunoo and Heeseung.

-

One night, as Sunoo sat alone at home, he received an unexpected visit. Heeseung was at his door, uninvited, with that enigmatic smile on his face. How on earth did the vampire know where he lived, and why was he here?
“I wanted to make sure you were okay,” Heeseung said simply.

Sunoo, surprised and wary, hesitated before letting him in. Could he read minds? This seemingly innocuous gesture marked a turning point in their relationship. For the first time, Heeseung was stepping into Sunoo’s private space—an intrusion both literal and symbolic. The two of them now sat in Sunoo’s living room.

As they talked, Heeseung leaned closer, once again breaking the barriers Sunoo desperately tried to maintain. When he reached out to gently brush Sunoo’s jawline, the younger didn’t pull away. Heeseung’s touch was icy, yet it made Sunoo’s skin burn.
“You don’t have to be afraid of me,” Heeseung murmured.

Those simple words made Sunoo’s hands tremble.
“I’m not afraid of you, hyung,” Sunoo whispered back.

He knew it was a lie. But in that moment, he chose to ignore it. Perhaps because a part of him desperately wanted to believe there could be a place where he was more than just a pawn, more than a precious resource. Perhaps because he hoped Heeseung truly saw something more in him than golden blood.

And that’s what he believed when Heeseung’s hand slipped once again to his neck, and his chapped lips met Sunoo’s soft, hydrated ones.

The heavy silence that hung between Sunoo and Heeseung after the kiss wasn’t empty—it was charged with unspoken words, tacit promises that Sunoo didn’t dare articulate. By letting the vampire cross the threshold of his apartment, he had crossed a line he had sworn never to approach. Yet in that moment, he convinced himself he still had control over the situation.

An illusion, of course. Especially after that final act from Heeseung.

-

In the days following that nocturnal visit, Heeseung seemed to intensify his presence. He found excuses to run into Sunoo, always with that disarming ease. Sometimes, he showed up unannounced; other times, he sent messengers, claiming urgent business. But it was never truly about business. It was a subtle dance, a game of seduction where Heeseung gradually erased the boundaries Sunoo had established.

One evening, after a transaction in the dimly lit parlor of Heeseung’s mansion, the latter offered him a drink. It had become a sort of ritual: Sunoo accepted, even though he knew that each sip of wine brought the vampire a little closer to his goal.

"You know," Heeseung began, twirling his glass between his elegant fingers, "there’s something I just can’t figure out about you."

Sunoo, wary, raised an eyebrow. "Only one thing?"

Heeseung chuckled softly, a sound that seemed strangely sincere. "You’re unique, Sunoo. Not just because of your blood. You’re... elusive. And it’s fascinating."

Sunoo felt the weight of the compliment but refused to let anything show. "Maybe you should stop trying to understand me."

Heeseung leaned in slightly, his piercing gaze locking onto Sunoo’s with an almost unbearable intensity. "Maybe I can’t."

And once again, as had become their new habit, Heeseung pressed his lips to Sunoo’s, pushing further and further into a kiss that was meant to be gentle yet still dominant.

-

A few days later, Sunoo yielded to another of Heeseung’s invitations. This time, he found himself in a room he had never seen before—a sumptuous library where the air was thick with the scent of old books and something sweeter, almost intoxicating. The flickering chandelier light danced on the walls, creating an intimate and slightly oppressive atmosphere.

Heeseung was different that evening. More direct, more intense, from the very beginning. He no longer played subtly; he closed the distance between them until Sunoo could feel his cold breath on his skin.

"I could protect you, you know," Heeseung murmured. "Give you what no one else can."

Sunoo felt his heart race. He wanted to respond, but the words were stuck in his throat. And when Heeseung raised a hand to brush his cheek, Sunoo didn’t pull away. That touch, though light, sent a jolt through his entire body.

"Why are you doing this?" he finally asked, his voice more fragile than he wanted.

Heeseung smiled, a gentle smile laced with mystery. "Because you deserve it."

That night, under the dim glow of an almost-full moon, Sunoo opened a door he had kept locked tight his entire life. He allowed Heeseung to cross a barrier no one else had dared approach. The implicit pact that had bound them thus far shifted into a new and forbidden dimension. Sunoo gave more than a simple gesture, more than a proof of trust: he gave his blood. Not sealed in a sterile, impersonal vial, but directly, in an exchange both raw and intimate—an offering he had sworn never to make.

Heeseung stood before him, his dark gaze fixed on Sunoo’s delicate neck, a mix of longing and restraint painted across his features.

"Are you sure you want this?" Heeseung asked, his voice rough and slightly hesitant.

Sunoo, breathless, averted his eyes for a moment. He ran a trembling hand over his neck, hesitating. A gentle warmth tinged his cheeks, betraying his embarrassment. Then, in a slow but resolute motion, he tilted his chin up, exposing his bare throat to the silvery light.

"Yes," he murmured, barely audible. "I want it to be you… only you."

There was a heartbreaking fragility in his voice but also an unwavering determination. Heeseung approached, softly, almost as if afraid of scaring him. He placed one hand on Sunoo’s waist, the other lightly brushing against his neck.

"If you want me to stop… say so," he added, his lips already grazing the tender skin.

Sunoo closed his eyes, his hands timidly clutching at Heeseung’s shirt.

The moment Heeseung’s fangs pierced his flesh was both brutal and exquisite. Sunoo stifled a moan, his fingers gripping Heeseung’s shoulders tightly. The pain was sharp, searing, but it faded almost instantly, replaced by a captivating warmth that spread in waves through his entire body.

"H-Heeseung hyung…" he gasped, a tear sliding down his cheek unnoticed.

Heeseung, for his part, was lost in the ecstasy of the moment. The taste of Sunoo’s blood, so rich and unique, overwhelmed him. Yet, he maintained an almost superhuman control, his arms wrapped firmly but tenderly around Sunoo, holding him close as if to anchor him. However, he didn’t hesitate to sink his fangs deeper, eager to devour Sunoo entirely and savor every drop.

Sunoo, his legs buckling, clung desperately to him. He trembled, not just from the bite but under the weight of the emotions flooding him.

"Hyung…" he murmured in a broken voice as Heeseung finally pulled away.

When Heeseung released him, Sunoo felt both drained and filled all at once. His breathing was ragged, his cheeks flushed. He said nothing, but his eyes shone with an emotion he couldn’t name. Something had changed irrevocably. A part of him now belonged to Heeseung, and he knew it.

Heeseung’s lips, stained red with blood, pressed gently against the mark left on Sunoo’s neck, as if to soothe the sting.

"Did I hurt you?" he asked softly, his forehead resting against Sunoo’s.

Sunoo shook his head, his eyes still bright with a confused but intense glow.

"No… it was… it was…"

He didn’t finish his sentence, his trembling lips closing around words he couldn’t bring himself to say. Instead, he let his forehead rest against Heeseung’s shoulder, his hands still clutching him.

Heeseung ran a soothing hand through Sunoo’s hair, murmuring comforting words in his ear. Sunoo slowly raised his head, his gaze meeting Heeseung’s.

"I trust you," he finally whispered.

Sunoo didn’t see it. He hadn’t noticed the terrifying smile that now adorned Heeseung’s face. No. Sunoo was far too dazed to realize.

The silence that followed was heavy with unspoken promises, with a bond they had sealed in an act of unparalleled intimacy. Yet on another level, Sunoo had committed a grave betrayal toward the two other vampires. Sunoo was now playing on two fronts—and he would come to regret it.

After that night, Sunoo found himself trapped in a spiral of contradictions. On one hand, he felt closer to Heeseung than he’d ever thought possible. He couldn’t deny the connection that had formed between them—a connection that transcended the mere power dynamics he had observed in other vampires. But on the other hand, he despised himself for this weakness. He knew that every step he took toward Heeseung put him in greater danger.

He kept asking himself the same question: Was he still in control of his choices, or had he already become a pawn in Heeseung’s game? That night, was Sunoo fully aware of his actions? Or had Heeseung enlisted the help of some subtle drug or something of the sort?