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What One Finds in an Auction House (Translucentfeathers & Janus)

translucentfeathers

translucentfeathers

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Joined
Oct 18, 2015
Location
Nowhere
Dominic was not known for opening up his home, his life, to others. Cool steel blue eyes swept over the gossiping couple in the corner of the auction house, their sudden silence was amusing as was their flustered guilt and shame as they quickly turned and tried to appear busy, attempting to look as though they hadn't been murmuring quietly about him. With a slight chuckle, he let a broad hand smooth through the dark blonde hair that fell loosely over his ears to the nape of his neck, it was getting long enough he would either need a trim or to start tying it back. It wasn't as if he could blame the gossiping pair, not truly. He was a heavy hitter in the vampire world, one with title and power behind his name but at the same time he led a secluded life, one away from public eye. Dominic had no wife or husband, no pets and kept a single human male man servant who would run errandd and tasks for him as needed during daylight hours who had been in service of his parents decades before he came to work for him. It was decidedly odd to see him in an auction house looking for a plaything, for a pet.

Dominic made his way to the back, slipping idly through the crowd and ignoring the brief looks and attentions he was garnering, a small part of him resenting it and wishing he was back at his home in his study, tucked away from the world and all of this unwanted focus. His sharp blue eyes scanned over what this auction house had available for sale today, wondering if anything would peak his interests in a way that was yet to happen in his long life. But Carl his servant was getting older and it would do to have someone to tend to him with a bit of youth. That and he had grown weary of the flings and one night whores he had subjected himself to for feeding and sexual release. Dominic wanted something more permanent, something-someone he could call his to use for his hungers both in thirst and sexually.
 
Ethan let out a guttural roar, his knuckles white as he clenched the blasted cage that held him. His grey eyes narrowed in on the vampires that had trapped him, who stood there smirking at his helplessness. He was a lone wolf, one without a pack, an oddity when it came to his kind. But becoming captured was the furthest thing on his mind when he went out on his own, especially since he could usually hold his own against those bloodthirsty parasites. But they had sneaked up on him when he was asleep, managing to collar him with whatever black magic that kept him from turning. The strap seemed to siphon off his energy, wearing him out at an alarming rate before he had crashed into the ground, unable to fight back at the vampires who strategically waited for him to wear out before approaching the wolf. "I swear to the gods, you better hope I don't get out of here, or I'm coming for each and every one of your throats," he snarled, trying once more to phase into his wolf form but failing. The vampires only laughed at his constant attempts, confident in their structure.

"The cage is an alloy of steel and silver, coated in wolfsbane oil," they chuckled, though the creatures had kept a safe distance from the werewolf.

"It was specifically designed to trap pathetic whelps like you," another taunted, going through the index once more and reviewing the listings for today. Ethan was the prized pig for the day, his enslavement advertised all over the town.

The wolf man shot daggers at his captors, who quickly dissipated to check on the other captives. Ethan stood there, his bare body hunched, his messy brown hair dangling over his forehead as he tried to think of other methods for his freedom. It wasn't long before he heard a crowd of noises just outside of the auction house, an indication that it was about to begin.

One of the vampires reappeared, in his hands a bottle of dark liquid. "Well, we can't have you injuring our paying customers," he murmured, twisting open the bottle and splashing the contents at Ethan. The man fell to his knees immediately, his strength completely drained as he looked at the vampire that felt a lot more comfortable about approaching him. "Some more wolfsbane oil. Difficult to come by, but for you, we can spare a bottle or two when you're going to bring us so much wealth," he cackled, and then everything went dark.

---

"And now for our most prized possession, our pièce de résistance, if you will, a fully-grown werewolf!" Ethan finally came back into consciousness, still finding himself heavily dazed from the oil as he tried to make out the crowd of vampires in front of him. He tried to stand up, only stumbling as he held onto the bars for support, though it accomplished little. "I promise you, he's a lot better than he looks, folks," the auctioneer jested. "Who would like to place the first bid?"
 
Dominic watched silently as the auction began, his sharp cold gaze flicking over the individuals brought forth to be sold off, each more mundane and boring than the last. Surely there were several good looking men and women but they lacked something...something he couldn't quite put his finger on, each failing to capture his interest as their defeated and subservient gazes stared out fearfully or even hopefully at the audience as they awaited their fate. A grimace twisted over his features as Dominic began regretting his decision to come out this evening. None of these potential 'pets' had anything unique about them, all of their fight and sense of self gone with their willingness to simply submit as quickly as possible to whomever placed the highest bid. With a slight sigh of disappointment he straightened, preparing to leave, unable to stand being in the crowd and deal with the rabble any longer when the announcer's words caught his attention.

The auctioneer had taken on a tone that spoke of his excitement in this next sale, his voice carrying as he announced the fully grown werewolf as being next on their list for sale. Dominic turned, glancing back up at the stage to see a large cage bearing a man with a mess of brown hair struggling to get to his feet. He listened idly as he pushed through the crowd and made his way up to the stage, closing in as much as he could to eye the seemingly broken were.

It was a pity to see a creature of such strength reduced to this, and his lips curled in a tight frown when the werewolf stumbled and clung to the bars. Dominic knew that werewolves and vampires were bloodborn enemies, hating one another on a biological level, but there was still something to be said about respecting ones enemy and their strength. He wondered what it had taken to cause such a man to have become so broken when his nose flared, a sharp pungent odor hitting him. He noticed it then, a slick shine of oil on the werewolf's bare skin where wolfsbane had been thrown over him to weaken him. The werewolf was not broken, merely being kept tame by essence of wolfsbane, which by the sheer amount indicated this creature was likely a fighter and a struggle to deal with.

It took less than a moment for Dominic to step back from the cage and nod at the auctioneer, having lost track of where the bid was but not caring. It appeared it was between him and another vampire, Lord Durlac, a cruel old one who had been around longer than his own sire and was known for collecting things. Dominic continued to bid, quickly out matching Durlac and winning the auction, as well as the werewolf.

A brief triumphant smile chased over his lips when the word SOLD! rang out over the crowd as they clapped at the sport they witnessed in the brief rivalry. Dominic offered the other vampire a curt nod before returning his gaze to the stage hands that were approaching him in regards to delivery. It would take several hours for transfer, as the werewolf was not a normal pet who could simply be collared and handed over. The cage would be delivered to his home and he was to wait for him there. With a final glance at his prize, his new pet, Dominic turned and left, the excitement of finally finding what he was looking for causing his step to quicken as he made his way home.

~~~~

Dominic sent his man servant Carl out for the evening, giving him leave to spend the next week visiting family outside of the city to allow him time alone with his new pet. It also would spare the elderly gentleman any accidental harm should this werewolf attempt to escape or resort to violence. The white button up he were was untucked, the sleeves rolled up around his muscled forearms as he directed the men where to move the cage in his large foyer, leading them to a quiet study not far off. The walls were lined with books with thick leather furniture and dark decor accented by a large fireplace which he had Carl set before the man left so as to keep his newest guest warm until he could trust the werewolf with clothing. Dominic tipped the delivery men well and shut the large front doors before striding back to the study, latching the double oak doors behind him before he turned and watched the werewolf silently, finally alone with his latest purchase.
 
The wolf was finally coming to, the wolfsbane oil having been absorbed into his body and filtered out like a bad cold. “Fucking parasites,” he muttered, struggling to stand up as his strength returned to him gradually. Ethan let out a low growl as he pushed himself up, though he felt his energy plateau before it barely even reached its full capacity. Even in his incapacitated state, he had witnessed it all: his auction, the transaction, the delight on the auctioneer’s face as he had garnered the most money they’ve ever seen, how he was loaded for transport, to where he was now. He didn’t even bother taking a good look at the room—he’d end up destroying it into ruins anyways, before taking the lives of every single bloodmongrel here.

Hoping that the worn off wolfsbane would restore his powers, Ethan gritted his teeth, his eyes flaring and the veins in his arms bulged tight as he tried to shift phases. Experienced wolves never had difficulty in their transitions, and it was never a problem for Ethan. But as the muscles in his neck tightened, he felt something hard constricting it. His hand went up to feel the hard metal band clasped around his neck, as if he were some mangy cur. The wolf gripped the adornment, sending out a deep roar as he tried to rip it off, only to find that his energy was being drained almost twice as fast now. The damned collar must have been made with the same materials as the cage, he seethed, weakening his abilities upon contact. And with it so firmly coiled around Ethan’s neck, also set a limit to his powers, so that any vampire could probably immobilize him with ease if he were to get out of control.


Unable to stand upright in the cage from the lack of sufficient height, he had no choice but to crouch down, eyeing the vampire that occupied the room with him. He didn’t seem to register anything about the creature’s appearance, other than seeing a pale neck to snap and a heart to rip out.

“So you’re the fool who went out and bought a werewolf,” Ethan grunted, scratching the side of his face before running his hand through that mop of a head. The wolf snorted, the corner of his lip curling up as he met the vampire’s gaze. “You must have a death wish.”
 
Dominic studied the weakened werewolf, noting the silver collar in place that was keeping him in that state. He watched as the werewolf tensed, when he tried to shift and the way the collar prohibited this from happening and witnessed the roar of sheer rage that erupted as a result. Dominic did not care much for the metal band around his new pets throat, it would leave their experiences cheapened if the werewolf was forced into complete submission while under his care. If this other man was going to submit he wanted it to be because Dominic brought him to it, not some tinket. The vampire craved a partner who was strong enough to potentially overpower himself adding to the thrill of their encounters. A pet who would throw back as much fight and spirit as Dominic would give, making the vampire earn his claim and dominance.

There was little chance now of Dominic being able to remove the band of silver now though, not without risking his hand being ripped off in the process. The vampire walked over to a large plush leather arm chair not far from the cage, sitting down and locking eyes with the crouching, near feral creature who looked ready to attack viciously if given an opportunity.

At his words though, Dominic couldn't help but offer a dark, sharp smile. "And you're the fool who allowed himself be caught by vampires and sold into servitude...you are lucky it was I who bought you and not another," he said casually with a single lift of a shoulder as his hands roamed over that mop of chestnut hair, the bare skin and the other man's features, watching him quietly and gauging his every action and movement with a calculated look. "That cage looks far too small for you," he continued with a brief nod at the metal structure. "If you calm yourself I would be willing to consider letting you out of it so we may become better acquainted."
 
The caged wolf cocked his head for a mere second at the vampire's words before sitting down on the floor of the cage, laughing. The throaty sound echoed in the room, a mixture of amusement and bitterness, though it weighed heavily on the latter. "I should be lucky," he repeated, taking a moment to replay those words in his head as he combed his hand through his thick chestnut hair, which seemed to have a mind of its own. "I should be lucky that my captivity rests in your hands," he chuckled. "I should be lucky, that instead of having our kind acknowledge territorial respect, I was drugged, caged and transported to some pissant's house, sold into slavery." Ethan leaned back, apathetic about his state of nudity in front of the fanged creature. "I apologize, Sir," he seethed, "I should be ever so grateful."

He knew that it was in his best interests to play along after hearing the creature's proposal, and playing calm wouldn't be too difficult, since it meant that he'd be released from this infernal cage. Not to mention, he could use the opportunity to drive his claws through those glaring blue eyes, an example to any other vampire who even thought about trying to capture him again. But fuck if he didn't hate that smug look on the bastard's face, sitting on that plush chair, appraising him. It only infuriated him even more, the suggestion that they be better acquainted.

"And what do you suppose we do, sit around the table for tea and chat? Get over yourself, bloodsucker. I've no desire to be acquaintances with the likes of you. Especially when it was the likes of you that got me here. Now, free me from this cursed cage and I'll rethink killing you."
 
"Perhaps I did not make my intentions clear," Dominic said calmly, face falling into an expression of neutrality as he rose to his feet and approached the cage, just out of reaching distance should the werewolf try anything foolish. "I apologize for attempting to be somewhat diplomatic when first making you aware of your current situation. This time, I shall be much more blunt," he said cooly, his voice dropping an octave as he crouched, mirroring the wereowlf's posture. He felt something primal and instinctual rise up in him, a raw predatory hunger that had his dark smile widening as he focused in on the man in the cage.

"Regardless of your feelings on the matter? You belong to me. You were a fool for being captured and should know better than to assume us 'blood suckers' would honor any sort of pact boundaries placed on territory limits. While this situation is not ideal for you, your predicament could be far, far worse if you had fallen into someone elses hands as I do not wish to break you, or tame you. I will not, however, sit idly by and listen to you threaten me while expecting to be treated better for it."

Dominic tilted his head towards the padlocked latch on the cage. "I would like to see you out of there so I can properly bathe and feed you, I would also like to work towards replacing that wretched thing around your neck with something that doesn't limit you quite so drastically," he continued before tilting his head as a low snarl left his own lips even as he continued to smile. "But I do not reward insolence with freedom, or misbehavior and threats with trust." He let his words sink in, leaving a moment of silence to stretch out between them before continuing. "I have no intentions of sitting around feeding you tea and little pastries, little wolf, while we play games of getting to know one another," he said with a brief snort before rising back to his feet.

Dominic walked over to the shelves mounted to the walls, selecting a book before returning to sink into his chair as he flipped over the pages quietly, eyes scanning the words. When he next spoke he did not bother to look up or offer the werewolf his gaze or full attention. "Start by giving me your name, and we can move forward from there. Or you can continue to sit in your own stench and coated in remnants of that wretched wolfsbane they slathered you with, the choice is yours."
 
"Suit yourself," the wolf grumbled, settling down in the confined space with his back against the metal bars. As if I'm going to give in to his list of requests, Ethan thought to himself, determined to have as little interaction with the male as possible. This is what vampires would do, how they lured humans into their claws and drank them bone-dry. It was all a ploy, and Ethan would be damned to fall for it. To lower his guard and expose himself to this creature would be a costly mistake, one that he was already paying for.

A few hours passed by in total silence, and the wolf had nothing else to do but to observe the vampire reaching for book after book, his posture composed and his face without expression. Ethan had expected for the creature to crack, to grow tired of this and demand for his obedience, to which the wolf would lure him closer to rip his head off, even without being in his other form. But the other had remained still, almost forgetting of his captive's existence. All the meanwhile, Ethan's expression had soured from the pungent smell of that wolfsbane oil, no longer having its effect on his body, but just as rancid a stench as ever. Even as he tried to scrub his arms and chest furiously where the oil had been doused on him, it clung onto him stubbornly.

In a fit of annoyance, the wolf hunched up and thrashed about in the ill-fitted cage, his body flushed with a crimson hue as his blood boiled. His howls an explosion of rage and venom, he tried once more to phase out, to call upon his wolf form to free him. His pupils narrowed, and the curve of his ears began to sharpen upward, but that was extent of his transformation, brought back into check by the brace that locked his powers. He ramming the bars, gripping them and trying to bend them outwards to open up a sizable gap, to rip off the collar around his neck, to do anything, but just like what he had tried to do when he was first captured, proved to be of no use. His muscles had tightened up, veins bulging out of them, but his strength was useless in this situation, considering he was trapped in a closed space heavy in wolfsbane. Exhausted, he slumped back down, breathing heavily as he cast his eyes away from the vampire in front of him in disdainful surrender.

"Ethan..." he finally grunted, slouching back down in the cage, feeling the fatigue envelope his body. "My name is Ethan."
 
Dominic read in silence, ignoring the were's outbursts and noises of rage as he struggled and fought with his captivity. It was several hours and two books later that he heard the man with brown hair quiet, stilling in the cage as he slumped in his confines. The vampire continued to read, listening to the heavy breathing that came from the cage where the werewolf had exhausted himself in his rage and fits of defiance. It wasn't long until he heard that rebellious nature subside completely and he saw over the edge of the book currently holding his attention as the other man cast his eyes away as if painfully admitting defeat, at least in this round it seemed.

"Ethan," he said easily, testing the weight of the other's name on his tongue while setting the book down in his lap with a single finger marking his place when he heard the male's voice answer the question he had asked hours prior. Dominic returned his gaze to the exhausted creature, a slight frown tugging at the corners of his lips. "Well, Ethan...can I release you from that wretched cage yet or are you going to attempt to cause me and my home harm?" He asked simply, his tone neutral.

Dominic continued to study the werewolf, unwilling to take for granted this man's strength despite his worn and haggard appearance and the collar. Of course, there was no doubt in the vampire's mind that he could over power his pet should Ethan struggle or try to put up a fight, but he would rather not damage his new purchase too gravely if the werewolf went for the kill and wouldn't stop until one of them lay dead. Shaking his head briefly he leaned forward a bit, forearm bracing himself on the rest of the armchair he sat in as he nodded his chin in the werewolf's direction.

"What say you, Ethan?" Dominic asked calmly. "I can provide you with a meal and means of cleaning yourself and we can discuss the terms of our arrangement so you know exactly what it is you are potentially struggling with and fighting against."
 
Relying on pure rage and strength had become a tiresome endeavor, and it wasn't getting him anywhere. The cycle was the same: exerting all of his might to try and break free, falling short, and find himself horribly weakened as a result. He needed a different approach, one that promised a chance of freedom rather than ridicule from this creature. If this vampire followed through with his proposition, Ethan would be uncaged, clean, and fed. He had no doubt in his mind that he'd easily take the life of this shithead if he were at least liberated from this godforsaken cage, even in his human form. And to have his energy replenished would only be an added bonus.

Of course, the instincts that came with his kind that had protected him from danger for as long as he could remember advised against this, but what other choice did he have? Rot in this confinement? It seemed that for the past few hours, the vampire had no issue ignoring his outbursts, and being the soulless monsters that they were, he would probably have no issue letting the wolf remain here for days, weeks even, until his body was completely drained. So he'd play nice. Let himself return to full capacity, unhindered by dirty tricks such as silver collars or that horrid oil, and rise back up like the beast that he is. But unlike those that captured him, he wasn't going to resort to cheap parlor tricks to gain the upper hand. Maybe it was a pride thing, achieving greater satisfaction in knowing that he bested his enemy out of pure power alone and nothing else. It was how pack leaders were chosen, and how conflicts were resolved.

Ethan got back up, crouching down as his forearms rested over his knees. He looked up at the vampire, his messy entangled hair flopping over and covering an eye as he spoke, his voice low and gravelly. "Fine, I'll behave for now. But listen here, leech, the second you turn your back on me, present me with any kind of opportunity to come up and rip your spine right out of your neck, I'll be sure to take it, without hesitation. Unlike your kind, I'll warn you now before the attack."

And so, with a scoff, he sat back down, feeling the cold metal bars against his high-temperatured body. "What's your name anyways," he gruffed, his head slightly nodding up at the vampire. "Vlad the Impaler? Dracula? No wait, let me guess: Nosferatu?"
 
Dominic raised an eyebrow at the threat and watched the werewolf quietly, his dark blue eyes calculating the weakened man within the cage before he rolled a shoulder in a simple shrug. "Think what you will, but do recognize that collar will make it difficult for you to exact that rather creative, albeit somewhat graphic, threat against me," he said as easily as if he was discussing the weather rather than dealing with a creature threatening to slaughter him. "Though I would suggest you not strike the first blow unless you are quite certain you will be able to land the last as well," Dominic said, his own voice taking on the tones of a dark promise as the vampire studied the werewolf. "Since we are warning each other of course..."

He debated leaving the werewolf in there for another couple of hours, though he felt more inclined to attempt to gain some small trust by keeping his promise than build greater animosity between them. That and the werewolf didn't seem to be in the greatest condition and his hunger most likely didn't help Ethan's mood as Dominic doubted the auction house offered such a creature a fitting meal or basic necessities. The vampire had Carl stock the kitchens before he left for his pet and supposed getting some water and food for the other man would be the best way to start extending the proverbial olive branch while they had their discussion about exactly what this relationship between them would entail.

Dominic glanced at the book a final time, committing the page to memory before rising to his feet and returning it to a shelf before striding over to crouch down in front of the cage, a small silver key appearing between his fingers as he unlocked the latch and unbarred the opening. "Charming," he chuckled dryly at the other man's smart ass retort. "My name is Dominic, Ethan, just Dominic will suffice for now. Later we can discuss titles and proper ways for addressing one another in public settings as well as more private situations," he said easily before he walked over to the mantle and grabbed a silver decanter of water and a crystal glass, returning to the cage and pouring a glass for his pet as a cool pale hand offered it to him without a word.
 
"Oh, I don't start a fight unless I plan on ending it," he retorted, reaching for the crystal glass, though he'd be lying if he said he didn't feel a slight chill at the returned threat. The words had a different weight to them, nothing he'd ever felt before among other wolves. But then again, he wasn't dealing with his own kind.

Raising the glass up to his parched lips, he cocked his head back, downing it in a swallow. He was far too quenched to even consider the possibility of other undesirable substances in the water, quickly handing the tumbler back to the vampire for a refill. It cascaded down his throat like a refreshing waterfall, his dehydrating body quick to take in the cold liquid as he felt it spread out inside of him. He finally gasped, his once parched throat now satisfied from sheer drinking alone as he set the glass down in front of the vampire letting out a relaxed exhale.

With the cage finally unlocked, the wolf stepped out, enjoying the air of conditioned freedom as he took the opportunity to stretch out his sore muscles, cramped from being in there for so long. Ethan let out satisfying grunts as he reached back, showing off the toned muscles that graced his body with every position he took before sauntering over to the couch Dominic had sat in earlier, plopping himself down. "What, Dominic isn't good enough for you, you gotta add in a title?" He leaned back into the plush couch, his forearms leaning on the armrest, his bare bottom against what was probably quality leather. "What is it? 'The Terrible?' 'The Dark?' What other stupid adjectives do you vampires have to tack onto the back of your names in order to induce fear into the hearts of those useless humans, Nicky?" He smirked, mindlessly scratching his pubic mound as he sank into the chair.
 
Dominic's gaze followed Ethan's naked form as arousal and hunger swept through him at the blatant display of firm muscle and tightly honed skin. Setting his jaw tightly, against the flares of heat, want and hunger he felt while he watched as the werewolf set the glass down before drifting over to the chair the vampire had been sitting in only moments ago. Dominic moved smoothly back to the fireplace, leaving the empty pitcher and glass on the silver tray he had retrieved them from before turning, slipping his hands into his back pockets to study his new pet currently perched in his arm chair.

"Nothing nearly so foreboding, or dark," Dominic said with a slightly amused expression even though he grimaced at the nickname Ethan coined for him. "Must say, Nicky is a first as far as irritating nicknames I have been given go," he chuckled as his eyes narrowed on the were. "Such a clever puppy to think that one up all on your own," he threw back, despite the fact that the strong man currently seated before him was in now way shape or form a pup by any means of the word. He assumed those would be endearing terms between them though, as much endearment as you could get of course through the threads of animosity.

"But no, no ridiculously dramatic adjectives. It is more along the lines of Sir and Master, titles others expect to hear you address me as," Dominic hummed with a shrug. "Things I may expect to hear you use when you are brought to begging beneath my hands." He let the weight of those words sink in as he continued to watch Ethan in the flickering light of the fireplace behind him as the night truly settled in on the world around them.
 
Ethan snorted, picking at his teeth as he wiped the wet finger against the nearby wall, complete disregard for his surroundings as he returned his amused gaze to the vampire. "Sir? Master?" Those words were bitter on his tongue, and the idea of a werewolf succumbing to the likes of a vampire made his stomach turn. "Look," he chuckled dryly, "I appreciate you buying me and helping me avoid a 'predicament far worse,' as you never fail to remind, but I'll be damned if I refer to you or any other bloodthirsty bat as my master." The wolf leaned back, his weight shifting to an elbow on the armrest as his brows furrowed at the soulless creature. "I don't even accept my own kind as alphas--what makes you think I'll accept you?"

Pushing himself up with ease now, he took a few steps over in Dominic's direction by the fireplace, the spectrum of light from the burning flames striking his tanned body. He hovered over the creature, his expression in complete defiance as he looked down at the vampire. "If you want some play thing to crawl to your beckoning with its tail between its legs, to satisfy whatever sick fantasies you might have, I suggest you haul ass back to that auction house and find some pathetic sap ready to spread his cunt for you." The wolf crouched down to the bloodsucker's level, his blood-red eyes clashing against the hard, blue ones as the corner of his lips furled into a snarl, no attempt to disguise the malice in his voice. "Because it'll be a cold day in Hell before I'm caught begging at your will."
 
Dominic watched quietly as Ethan disregarded his home, blatantly displaying his defiance towards the vampire and his absolute displeasure at his predicament. It wasn't until the second part of his previously made statements sank in though that he caught wind of the fire and fight he had been craving to see.

Dominic didn't move an inch, form relaxed where he leaned against the mantle, eyes taking in the expense of tan flesh in the warm glow of the fireplace, contrasting so starkly with his own pale skin. With a brief arch of an eyebrow he watched as Ethan closed in on him, crouching to be closer to his relaxed frame and level off with him, those blood red eyes peering down into Dominic's as the vampire simply listened to what the werewolf had to say.

"See now, this I believe is where the disconnect is," he hummed idly before pushing off and taking a dangerous step closer to force the werewolf back, finally taking on the offense for once as he narrowed his eyes and that predatory smile was back, shadowed by the flames of the hearth as his eyes glowed softly. "I have no desire for a simpering bitch who comes crawling with their tail between their legs as you so aptly put it and my sick fantasies don't revolve around debasing something that is already broken. I picked you because of your fight," he said darkly, words edged with his own snarl as his instincts began taking over and he felt himself begin to lose that grip he had as the lust, the want and the sheer excitement of a challenge teased him so handsomely.

Dominic's arms unfolded, hands reaching up to shove the werewolf back roughly so he fell back a few paces while the vampire continued stepping forward, pressing into the werewolf's personal space. "I wanted someone strong enough to fight back and who wouldn't just roll over and spread their legs merely because it was expected of them. Someone who had bite to them and could offer a challenge."

Dominic's eyes hardened as the smile became even broader. "Be careful, little wolf," he mocked. "I am not one of your alpha's restrained by pack hierarchy or some such basic bullshit. When I lay claim to your flesh you will enjoy it and your feeble protests that you will not beg? Are merely reinforcing my decision to bring about that cold day in hell faster for you."
 
Ethan stumbled backwards a few steps in surprise to the vampire's display of force, catching himself from falling as he naturally lowered himself into a predatory stance. His heartbeat rose in excitement, the instinct to fight ready to take over. He raised an eyebrow at Dominic, his pointed teeth revealing themselves as he grinned. It delighted him to see such a response from the creature, especially when he had gotten so good at playing the stoic male that it almost made the wolf wonder if such a being even existed.

Relaxing his muscles, he casually meandered over to the vampire, facing him directly, letting out a rumbling exhale. Ethan was a bit shorter than the other, but larger prey has never been an issue in the past, especially when his hunger for the kill was so great. But was this the fight he wanted right now? The collar only reinforced the difference in power, and as much as the wolf loved the thrill of the hunt, the years of experience on his scarred back kept him from entering into a fight that weighed so heavily on the other side. He merely snickered, raising his firm hand up and roughly patted the vampire on the chest.

"I always knew you were just like every other vampire, Nicky. It's nice to see a glimpse of the monster behind the cool facade." He raised his arms up in jest, backing away slowly, though he kept his eyes locked on Dominic's. "Alright, I'll be careful." He threw himself back onto the plush chair, returning to his relaxed state. "So, when's lunch?"
 
Dominic watched the reaction, saw the spirit and rebellious fire flit over the werewolf's face before Ethan calmed, reapproaching him from his last shove to stand in front of him, one of those tan hands coming out to pat gently at his chest as if attempting to tease and console him. It had his eyes flashing, the cool blue gaze lighting up under the way the werewolf seemed to be appraising him as potential prey. Oh yes, things with this were would be interesting. Dominic watched the werewolf slip back over and drop himself back into the arm chair, his dark blue gaze raking over Ethan's muscled form. The vampire walked over then, looming over the seated man before leaning in, cornering and crowding him against the back of the plush arm chair.

A quick motion had Dominic snatching the wrist of the hand that had patted his chest moments prior his own pale broad hand snagging around Ethan's wrist as he jerked it up before pressing his mouth to the base of the other man's palm. Dominic's tongue traced the veins of the werewolf's wrist, teeth grazing over skin as his eyes never left Ethan's, a low and primal noise rumbling out of Dominic's throat as he hummed over the sun kissed flesh and sent the vibrations into the werewolf's skin. In a moment he pulled away, eyes dark as he met the other man's predatory gaze with one of his own. "Trust me, little wolf," he practically purred, "I make no pretenses on not being a monster...I just am one who knows how to keep himself in check."

With that Dominic released Ethan's hand before turning, striding over to the locked doors of his study and unlatching them before exiting the room, calling out behind himself to the werewolf as he waited in the doorway for a moment. "Lunch will be now if you would like, follow me." With that he turned, resting easy knowing every door and window had been barred and latched if Ethan tried escaping, as Dominic made his way to the large kitchen down the hall.
 
Ethan followed behind, his steps a bit slower as he gripped the wrist that Dominic just held, for once feeling the slight chill on his usually heated skin as his fingers pressed into it. When the vampire rushed up to him, Ethan hadn't picked up on anything--his impeccable sense of smell usually caught onto the rise in adrenaline or norepinephrine in the body before committing the act. It was the ability of detection that usually gave him the immediate upper hand, though it was lacking when it came to this pale-skinned creature. And while the realization should have instilled some form of fear in him, it only made him that much more excited for when they finally do clash, a worthy opponent for the beastly wolf.

Lead into the expansive kitchen, his nose immediately picked up on the various scents clashing with each other as it wafted through the hallway. The tart smell of wildberries, the distinct smoky aroma of different kinds of meats being roasted in the fire, some kind of boiling stew with potatoes, it was all inviting to the wolf. The were never bothered to cook his food in the past, content with eating it raw, or often times, as it was taking its last breath, but this was a treat. He seemed to forget the events of recent as hunger took over and the corners of his lips curled into a vibrant smile when he stepped into the room. Not seeming to care about the dining area where they would be eating, he scampered around the kitchen, his claws grabbing the food and shoving it in his mouth, no bother for etiquette.

He reveled in the display of food, juices and sauces painted his bare chest, dripping down his chin as his appetite proved its worth. Ethan finally turned over to Dominic, a fistful of roast beef in his hands as it seemed like he finally came up for air. "What are you gonna eat, Nicky the Ghastly?" He smirked. "Do you have barrels of blood lying around or is there a basement full of trapped virgins that you select from?"
 
Dominic watched quietly, leaning against a spare counter while Ethan devoured whatever was in sight that Carl had left for him. The food itself, while it could be stomached, was not something Dominic needed or found himself wanting. Cravings for food had died out decades ago for him and he found himself only occasionally missing liquor and chocolate, but it was on rare occasions. Still, seeing his new pet eat had a slight smirk crossing his features as he watched the werewolf demolish nearly half the kitchen's wares.

When Ethan finally came up for air, the almost comical mess he had made of himself had Dominic arching an eyebrow as he chuckled, pushing off the counter to go over and begin gathering the remnants of the wolf's meal to toss into the sink haphazardly to clean later. The question had him turning, glancing over his shoulder at the other man with a wicked grin as he clicked his tongue. "Little wolf, perhaps you want to rethink your question? It should be obvious what I want to eat."

Dominic's dark blue gaze flicked over the pulse point at Ethan's neck before returning to clearing the mess his pet had made. "I do keeps a small supply of freshly drawn blood available should I be unable to procure a live feed," he said simply with a shrug before a wicked laugh escaped his lips at the latter half of the question. "Virgins," he said with black humor painting his voice. Why on earth would I ever have a cache of simpering, shrinking violets who would most likely cater to my every need with a blush and give themselves over to me easily with no spirit, no soul, no fight?"

Dominic turned back to face Ethan, eyes narrowing in on the werewolf. "Why would I want that when it is clear my tastes are far more...evolved? I like the struggle, I don't want some tame inexperienced little play thing that would bare it's throat and spread it's legs each time I wanted a taste." He smirked with a slow shrug as his eyes raked over the tan expanse of bare skin of the brown haired man before him.
 
"Tell Jenkins I said thanks for the food," he said, looking over at the mutilated oven-baked chicken and wondering if he should reach for that remaining drumstick. Mulling over the thought, he finally picked it up, stripping it down to the bone as he ate it joyfully, tossing the stick into the trash.

"Everybody has lazy days," the wolf responded, letting out a satisfied grunt as he walked over and picked off the last remaining cubes of meat in the stew like ripe cherries and devoured them, licking his fingers clean when he was done. He leaped onto the counter, his legs dangling over the edge as he met the vampire's eyes, though this time, he was too full and content to return the level of intensity. Letting out a crude burp, he rubbed his stomach in content, the first he's ever felt since he had been taken.

Ethan gave a snort at the vampire's words, still floating along the state of bliss to let it bother him. "You're going to be a starving man, then," he quipped, hopping off the countertop and leaned into the vampire, taking an inhale, unable to smell anything but the food he just ate. Though his nostrils flared, they couldn't pick up a thing from the creature directly in front of him. Not even an ounce of body odor that normally emitted from other wolves or humans that made each of them distinguishable. No, all vampires smelled the same: like their environment. It was what made them such good predators, that they could hide in the shadows until strike. He hated that, and scrunched up his face in response before walking away.

"So, what say we remove this pesky collar around my neck," he tested, trying to center his focus on any kind of tool that would help him remove the damn brace as well as take out the vampire's life as well, but the kitchen had held nothing but pots and pans. Fucking servant must have removed them all, he cursed, reaching down to scratch his firm ass before moving that same hand up to scratch behind his ears.
 
Dominic snorted at the display, watching idly as his pet hopped up on the counter and made a show of being crass, clearly trying to irritate the vampire and break down his the mask again and pull a reaction from him like he had in the study. Dominic simply leaned against the counter and watched the werewolf with amusement as Ethan snorted and brushed off the promises and threats he made against the brown haired man. Oh he would enjoy taking this one apart, breaking through all that anger and fight until he tapped into that wild spirit and energy he fought so hard with. Dominic was going to love every moment it took to bring Ethan to the point that he was a writhing mess under his hands, the trick would be getting the werewolf to that point without either of them sustaining serious injury if the dark haired man put up the delicious fight he seemed to be promising. Dominic always loved a challenge.

He held still when Ethan leaned into him and inhaled his scent, obviously trying to get some sort tell or defining smell. The way his mouth twisted into a frown as his nose wrinkled revealed he had not found anything he had been looking for and Dominic's smirk grew, knowing he didn't have any of the identifiers the werewolf would need to make their fight fair. Vampires were all about stealth and silence, blending into dark shadows and offering no scent, no heartbeat, no perceptible weakness except an aversion to light and blessed religious items like holy water and other such relics. Of course aside from trinkets and sunlight there were physical ways to put one of his kind down, but this werewolf lacked the strength and agility in this weakened state it would take in order for him to succeed.

Dominic raised an eyebrow when Ethan hinted at removing the collar as the werewolf walked across the kitchen. He watched as the werewolf's eyes unsuccessfully scanned the room for something to remove the brace around his throat before Dominic pushed off from the counter. A cool hand reached out, fingers tracing heavily up over the dip of the small of his back, tracing his spine before resting heavily at the nape of his neck as he eyed the cool metal resting against sunkissed flesh.

"Sorry, but no. I have something else, something better than this metal circlet but it will not be delivered until tomorrow. Until then? You will unfortunately be required to wear this, little wolf," he said in a low voice, leaning in as he spoke so his breath skirted over the thick brown hair that hung loosely around Ethan's ears. With a smile he stepped away and motioned with a hand for Ethan to follow. "Right now we shall get you bathed and prepared for some rest. I am sure you would like to wash off the remnants of that wolfsbane oil."
 
Ethan felt the hairs on his body stand on end as the slim finger crawled up the curve of his back, the lingering touch making him jerk back in response. His brows creased in annoyance, establishing some distance between the two creatures as he lowered his head in warning. "The meal was great, but I'd appreciate you keep your hands where I can see them," he growled, his muscles tensing up as this was the third time that Dominic had gotten the advantage on him. It was happening, him being lured into a false sense of security through appeals to his biological needs like food and water, creating that window where he would let his guard down. "Just because I make jokes doesn't mean I'm not still waiting for the opportunity to rip your throat out," he croaked, letting out a heavy breath as he glared at the vampire.

"Anyways, I don't need a bath. I'm perfectly capable of cleaning myself," he remarked, bringing an arm up as he dragged his tongue across it, his face turning bitter the second he caught taste of that oil. But he wasn't going to give the vampire the satisfaction of thinking that he was wearing the wolf down, that he'd give into the bath. The leech would probably try something else on him, too. His entire body twitched in disgust as the oil now coated his tongue, forcing himself to swallow as he tried to lick off another part of his body. He nearly heaved, trying to hold down the amount of food he had just inhaled as he tried to bring himself to continue. "I don't need a bath," he repeated stubbornly, forgetting his anger once more as the wretched stench consumed every cell in his body.
 
Dominic arched an eyebrow as a slow, amused expression covered his features. This was...far too amusing not to witness. The werewolf's stubborn and bull headed ways were certainly entertaining if not somewhat endearing. The vampire folded his arms over his chest as he watched his pet put distance between them and fight the notion of a bath vehemently. The attempts to lick himself clean were near comical, the bitter scented oil had to taste dreadful, and Ethan's marred expression moments later certainly solidified that notion. He heard the anger leave his pets voice, replaced simply by defiance and that was when Dominic knew he had the wolf where he wanted him. Anger couldn't be reasoned with, however you could logically argue with defiance.

"Look, little wolf," he all but purred, the smile staying on his face. "If you want to send your body into shock and torture yourself with the toxicity that ingesting that oil would do to you? Be my guest. If you consume enough though it could cause you actual harm rather than simple nausa and a bitter taste." Dominic shrugged. "I am offering the bath to you either way though, and regardless of your decision it will be prepared and waiting for you should you so choose. I also promise to keep my hands where you can see them," he said with a wink before turning on his heel and leaving the kitchen.

The vampire didn't wait to see if the werewolf followed, there was no way for him to escape his estate in this weakened state and nothing he could use short of a skillet or heavy book in attempts to injure Dominic, which would not end well for Ethan should he try it. The vampire walked silently down the hall before he made his way to the marble stair case, climbing the wide steps until he reached the landing for the second floor, swifly moving to the large dark door on the left.

He left them open, the furniture ornate and polished dark wood the walls painted a deep navy blue with black curtains drawn tightly over shuttered windows. Dominic proceeded the the set of doors leading to the bathroom, opening them wide to reveal a lsrge bathroom, the cool grey stone floor and dark blue walls matched the bedroom it was adjoined to. The silver fixtures glinted softly with dark ornate marble sink inlays and a large mirror gracing the wall over the wide counter. The polished black and grey stone bath was wide and deep, large enough to fit several bodies easily within it. Pale broad hands turned the levers and knobs, watching as steam slowly rose into the air as the heated water rushed forward, slowly filling the tub. Dominic went about pulling out an assortment of bottles and vials, adding some of the mixtures to the water that would help wash away the oils and grease from the werewolfs meal. The smell of the scented water was dark and rich, like the forest at night after a heavy storm, laced with a spiced scent that left you wanting to take a deeper breath.

While the bath filled, Dominic leaned against the sink counter casually, waiting to see if the werewolf's need to remove the oils would outweigh his distrust.
 
Ethan scoffed, his eyes narrowing as he followed the vampire’s exit. It was only when he could hear the sound of the crisp steps fade that he finally pulled his tongue away from that rancid essence, hurrying over to the sink as he turned on the faucet, turning his head sideways and shoving it into the running water. The wolf ran his tongue through it as the festering sensation clung onto his taste buds, refusing to wash down. He let out an annoyed howl, resorting to his hands now to try and scrape the oil off, which only spread the vile substance around even more as it coated the entirety of his tongue. Ethan couldn’t help the gagging responses that followed, his senses already having a natural aversion to the damned plant, worse now that it was in him.

The wolf stepped out of the kitchen, confident that he was going to see that fucking vampire, all smug and arrogant, leaning against the hallway waiting for him. Which only made him taken aback when he came into a vacant passage. The crimson irises flared as he saw it as an opportunity for freedom, running to the nearest door. Trying to twist at the locked knob, he knew it was time to rely on his brute strength, taking a few steps back before he rammed into the wooden exit, his shoulders colliding with the sturdy wall as he fell back. His jaw clenched now, he tried again, only to meet the same result.

It must have been that fucking wolfsbane, his body ingesting it and using all of its resources to keep himself from turning sick. He took a moment to catch his breath, raising a weakened arm to try to push the door that wouldn’t even nudge an inch for him. “Goddamn vampires, I hate them all!” He roared, pounding at the door once more with a tightly clenched fist before turning to follow the thick scent that laid a heavy trail for him to follow.

He trudged wearily, his tongue sticking out to keep him from swallowing the wolfsbane oil, nostrils widening as it took in the spiced scent that offered momentary distraction from the plant essence. A few more steps and he found himself at the doorway to the source of it, his bare feet welcoming the cool stone flooring as he entered. And of course, there was the vampire, resting against the bathroom counter, showing off that trademark smirk. “Shut up,” he barked, his expression scowling as he made way towards the filled tub.

His muscles relaxed as he felt the steam invite him in, feeling instant gratification as he stepped into the hot pool of water. He slid in, submerging himself entirely before finally pulling off, his body thanking him as he could feel the slimy, toxic oil wash off of him with ease.
 
The vampire let out a slightly pleased hum when he saw the werewolf enter the bathroom and his smirk only grew at the barked order. Dominic watched as Ethan gave in to his desires and sank into the water, that hunger and arousal flaring to life again as he watched his pet submerge himself before rising again, tan skin glistening as rivulets of water streamed over hard muscle and smooth flesh. The collar glinted brightly against Ethan's dampened skin and Dominic studied him for a moment before his hands reached up to begin unbuttoning his own shirt, shrugging out of the soft material before letting his pants fall, fingers slipping the belt loose and unhooking the buttons and fastenings. Stepping out of the fallen garments Dominic moved over to gather a few large, plush black towels to drape near the tub before he himself stepped forward and slipped into the heated water. He let out a low hiss as the soothing liquid slipped over his form, allowing his body and muscles to relax.

Dominic was made of sharp hard lines and broad muscle, his pale skin contrasting sharply with the darkness of the bathroom. As he leaned back against the opposite edge of the large tub from Ethan, arms lifting from the water to smooth his wet fingers through the blonde hair as his eyes remained trained on the werewolf's naked form only a few feet from him. Despite the occasional looks he didn't act on his arousal though, at least not yet. Dominic offered Ethan what space he needed, instesd focusing on pouring some of the soap into his hands, lathering them together before smoothing them over the expanse of his own shoulders, fingers slipping down to scrub over the pale skin of his broad chest before they slipped lower, washing over his tapered waistline, hips, legs and feet.

The common consensus and stereotypical imagry of a vampire was a thin or gaunt, quite possibly sickly looking creature. Even when not they tended to be thought of as more lithe and fluid than actual physical strength and prowess. Dominic took pride in his musculature and height, knowing it added to the intimidating quiet nature he possessed that even his own kind found unnerving. It was no surprise he played that to his advantage, using it to keep others away, sticking to a more private life and enjoying his solitude, at least until now.

When Dominic finished he rinsed himself in the water by sinking into it with a pleasant hum. "Enjoying yourself? Even just a little bit?" He asked as he reclined dangerously calm in the water, eyes slipping over Ethan again before his steel blue gaze locked onto red.
 
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