Nox

How did things end up like this? Beohan glanced back at Nox, who walked alongside him. Nox’s tall and exotic appearance, akin to a sculpture, along with his conspicuously long hair, attracted the attention of everyone passing by. There was even a woman openly holding up her phone to take pictures.

Beohan had never been at the center of attention like this before in his life. In contrast, Nox didn’t seem bothered at all, unlike Beohan who felt uneasy just standing beside him. Was this the leader of the vampires they had mentioned? Regardless, he appeared accustomed to being in the spotlight, no matter the circumstances.

“Wouldn’t it be a good idea to trim your hair a bit?”

An irritable remark slipped out of Beohan’s mouth, thinking that slightly shorter hair might attract less attention.

“If you dislike it, then why not cut it?”

The response he received was more straightforward than he had anticipated, catching Beohan off guard. Furthermore, it felt like the answer was more about satisfying Nox himself rather than anything else.

“Never mind.”

What right did he have to tell someone else how to style their hair? Beohan abandoned the idea and lowered his head.

“Somebody mentioned they liked long hair. That’s why I’m growing it.”

Nox offered an explanation Beohan hadn’t asked for. Was he imagining it, or did he sense that ‘somebody’ was looking at him intently? When their eyes met, Nox smiled as usual. Beohan was truly puzzled. He was with Nox now precisely because he couldn’t understand him.

Even if Nox turned out not to be the culprit, this man would likely be central to the reasons why pureblood vampires were entering Korea. So, it would be beneficial to learn more about him.

Heaved a sigh. A disappointed chuckle slipped out of Beohan. It was amusing how he was currently with Nox due to all those comments about dates and such.

“There are more people here than I thought.”

Nox glanced around and muttered to himself. They were inside an aquarium, a large one in the heart of Seoul, and it was so well-known that it was usually bustling with visitors. Despite it being a weekday afternoon and relatively less crowded, Nox still felt that there were plenty of people around.

“Were you expecting a private visit?”

His words weren’t particularly polite. He realized he didn’t need to be this hostile, but somehow, he couldn’t help himself. Even as he thought there was no need to put up barriers between them, he felt like he’d be swept away if he let his guard down even a little.

Even though Beohan was being a bit prickly, Nox continued to wear a smile. What could be so enjoyable for him?

“Next time, I’ll make sure to arrange a private visit.”

Was that meant as a joke or a serious statement? Beohan couldn’t tell.

“You seem quite young.”

He couldn’t help but say that. He had thought there was no need to prolong this interaction, but his words didn’t come out as smoothly as he had intended. Despite his thoughts, it didn’t go as he hoped. If he just lowered his defenses a bit, it felt like he might be swept away by him.

Even though Beohan moved without saying anything, he stopped in front of a large aquarium. Inside, the lights were on, casting a bluish glow all around. A giant fish over a meter long swam leisurely in front of Beohan and Nox. He couldn’t help but stare, captivated by its unusual appearance.

Nox observed Beohan’s profile as he looked into the aquarium, lost in thought. Despite his previous cold distance, now that they were inside the aquarium, his expression seemed to have softened. Did he realize that his demeanor had become more relaxed after entering the aquarium?

“Is it because you’re confined despite swimming so gracefully?” Beohan responded to his casual remark by turning around with a slightly surprised expression. How could he not? His face was clearly conveying the question ‘what else?’ Nox’s smile deepened.

“Just… a sense of compassion, I suppose. Watching you glide through the water so beautifully, I can’t help but imagine you could venture much farther, to a broader horizon.”

A faint voice arose and faded into the breeze. The words themselves didn’t carry as much weight as the melancholic sentiment behind them.

“Do you still yearn to escape to a distant place?”

The sudden question caused Beohan’s eyes to blink. Still? The phrasing sounded peculiar. For modern individuals caught in the hustle of repetitive lives, longing to break away was akin to a dream-like aspiration. However, Nox’s words…

Nox’s smile, as he locked eyes with him, became increasingly wistful. Beohan felt as though Nox was seeing someone beyond him, not himself. A tight sensation gripped his chest.

What’s going on? Why am I having these thoughts? Why should I care who he’s thinking about?

“I don’t comprehend what you’re saying.”

He could have offered a simple, adequate response, yet he recognized he was needlessly distant. Nonetheless, until they departed from the aquarium, whether he liked it or not, he was bound to stay with this man. It felt unfortunate that an awkward atmosphere had arisen due to his superfluous words. He was already trapped in the impression he had left; he couldn’t retract his words. As he stood there contemplating, a large hand descended onto his head. It lightly ruffled his hair before retracting.

In a manner resembling how one might handle a child, Beohan turned his head to confront the guy’s almost childlike behavior, then chose not to utter anything. Nox was smiling softly. Thump, thump. Once again, his heartbeat responded to that smile.

I genuinely don’t understand why my heart reacts like this. The more I see Nox, the more he feels familiar. Yet he’s not Korean, and I haven’t encountered him anywhere recently.

Lost in thought, he unintentionally bumped shoulders with someone coming from the opposite direction. In an instant, he lost his balance and began to topple backward. He thought he was about to hit the floor with force, but then a firm grip caught his shoulder. Nox had swiftly moved behind Beohan and grasped his shoulder, preventing his fall.

As he turned his head to meet Nox’s gaze, Nox smiled as if it were nothing. Overlaying that face was another vague face. Despite the difference in hairstyle and attire, it was still Nox.

Have I… met him before? When exactly?

Guided by a strong intuition, Beohan involuntarily pushed away Nox’s hand. The hazy afterimage lingered, swirling around Nox.

I… I know Nox…?

Absurd as it sounded, the thought that had surged up once didn’t easily dissipate.

“Why are you acting like this?”

Possibly due to Beohan’s unwell appearance, Nox extended his hand to touch his cheek. Unconsciously, Beohan took a step back, avoiding the touch. Seeing Nox’s hand suspended in the air made Beohan feel strangely apologetic.

“Have you visited Korea before?”

Even as he asked, it seemed like he was uttering nonsense. As expected, Nox shook his head.

But what’s this? Why do I keep experiencing this sensation? I clasped my chest near my heart, sensing as though Nox’s gaze was penetrating me. From the outset, it had been like this, but now the gaze felt even more burdensome. It’s not as if we’re together for any specific reason. I should simply brush off his remarks about dates and all that and suggest going to a café or something instead.

“To be precise, this marks my first visit to Korea, but it’s not my first time meeting you.”

Nox added calmly. Beohan’s eyes widened. Thump, thump. Nox smiled once again. Seemingly lacking further explanation, he stepped forward, signaling to move on. Beohan’s mind was in disarray, and his feet felt uncooperative.

Taking a deep breath, his attention shifted towards the sizable fish inside the aquarium. The fish that had been gliding elegantly before them just moments ago had completed its circuit and returned.

“Do you still have a longing to escape to distant places?”

Had he ever expressed a desire to leave? To Nox…?

“I’ll transport you away. Anywhere you desire. To an unfamiliar place, far from here.”

Organically, a gentle voice resonated in his mind, causing warmth to rush to his face. He had encountered him before. The assurance of it grew stronger.

Lost in contemplation, Nox, who had been walking ahead, was no longer within sight. Even on an open pathway, he couldn’t have disappeared. As he scanned the surroundings, a sudden grip on his arm yanked him forcefully. Surprised, he didn’t have a moment to react.

Nox, slightly off-center, drew Beohan into that space. Swiftly ensnared, they found themselves embraced.

“What’s… happening!”

Before he could push him away, Nox’s face drew near. It was on the verge of another kiss. As their lips met once more, he entertained the thought. Held firmly by the back of his head, he couldn’t wrench his body away. His attempt to form a fist with his right hand to strike Nox was immediately intercepted.

“Mmph!”

Attempts to turn his head were in vain. Amid the firmly pressed lips, something heated flowed in. It wasn’t just saliva; it was even hotter. Prevented from moving his head, his mouth was pried open wider, allowing the warmth to flow directly down his throat.

Confirming the gulp of his Adam’s apple, Beohan swallowed, and Nox finally released him.

“What… the heck!”

Even as he exclaimed, wiping his lips with the back of his hand, Nox couldn’t help but continue grinning.

“It’s a precaution, just in case.”

The explanation was entirely incomprehensible. The loud exclamation perhaps prompted the people passing by to notice them and turn their heads. With flushed cheeks, Beohan turned around abruptly and hurriedly walked away.

Observing Beohan’s retreating form, Nox briefly rolled his eyes to check behind him. He sensed someone swiftly retreating behind a wall. His gaze turned icy, and his expression became utterly devoid of emotion.

***

After parking the car in front of the National Science Investigation Institute, Beohan promptly got out, slamming the door shut. Nox rolled down the window and waved, urging him to be cautious as he entered. However, Beohan didn’t look back and simply walked away.

“The cold wind is biting.”

Despite the words he spoke, a smile spread across Nox’s lips. Even this sight was enjoyable. The mere act of seeing him like this again brought happiness.

“Master.”

Yohan, at some point having approached, tapped his knuckles against the side window. Nox nodded, and Yohan climbed into the passenger seat.

“That bothersome title.”

“Ah…”

Uncertain about what to call him, Nox signaled for Yohan to go ahead and report.

“It’s in motion now.”

Nox’s demeanor was markedly different from just a moment ago when he was with Beohan. An icy coldness seemed to wrap around him like an unseen cloak.

“Alright.” That word slipped from his lips. Accompanied by the frosty tone, Nox’s eyes took on a reddish tint.

“Father, I might end up in hell.”

Their initial meeting had been a coincidence. Though it had been a while and the memory was fading, he could still vividly recall the scene from that day. It was a church he had entered briefly to hide himself. That’s where he had encountered ‘him’.

Emerging from behind the wall’s darkness, he had confessed to Nox. Even though he could have outright denied being a priest, the voice calmly uttering the possibility of ending up in hell was so composed that it piqued his curiosity. There was more resignation than fear in that voice. Intrigued by curiosity and mischief alike, he had engaged in the conversation.

“My father, whom I thought was absent, appeared. However… he instructs me to partake in a sham wedding that would deceive everyone. What fate awaits me?”

Even in his confession, he had veiled much in his words. This made him curious about what might be transpiring within him. A few days later, the person who had confessed to Nox dressed as a woman and married an Ottoman nobleman.

The other man was already married. He lived a dissolute life, indulging in debauchery to the extent that he scarcely cared for the chaste concubine at home. As the new bride, he often found himself alone.

Observing him, Nox found his gaze fixated on the man. The act of confessing might have been impulsive. Even when Nox abruptly invaded his room, he didn’t scream. Though dressed as a woman, he wasn’t female, so he had to suppress his breath, his eyes widening in response to the intruder’s presence.

“Fear not. I simply want to share your company in words. I will come to you every midnight.”

Even this unexpected proposition didn’t frighten him. Perhaps he was so lonely that he would welcome anyone, regardless of their identity.

From the outset, Nox knew he was a man, yet he tried to convince himself otherwise. Perhaps he wondered why not just play along, and his attempts were endearing, so he pretended to believe. Each night spent with him was enjoyable. Hence, he didn’t realize how dire the situation had become…

“I yearn to… escape to a distant place.”

The desire in his gaze aimed at a far-off location was heartrending. Even when he lifted his chin, meeting lips, he didn’t shy away from Nox.

“I’ll whisk you away. Anywhere you desire. To a place unknown, far from here.”

He wore a smile, and it was genuine. A faint smile even tugged at his lips. However, beneath the smile, it seemed as though tears might well up. If only he had been a tad more perceptive, he would have understood…

The following day, he sternly instructed Nox never to visit him again. Even within the realm of vampires, circumstances arose, and on that night, unseen from afar, he was executed on false charges of being a witch tied to a demon through affection.

His nightly visits had ultimately led him to his demise. He realized this too late upon his arrival. By then, he had already become a cold corpse. It was too late to undo it.

Rage and sadness overwhelmed his emotions and reasoning. His eyes blazed crimson. The feeling of love, clearer in its absence, tore at his heart. Nox, placing his hand on his now-stilled heart, poured out his own energy. The deceased cannot return to life. Having fully died, he couldn’t even be transformed into his comrade.

The only remaining option was the soul imprinting. Soul imprinting was a privilege reserved solely for those acknowledged as complete counterparts within their own kind… In that moment, Nox came to the decision of making him a lifelong companion. The leader of the vampires had chosen his companion, and while he knew the gravity of it, there wasn’t another alternative.

As Nox peered out the window, his gaze grew more intense. Yohan, seated in the living room and organizing materials, observed Nox’s back. Though earlier, when they’d been with Shinbihan, he seemed like a different person, now he emanated such distance that striking up a casual conversation seemed impossible.

“Alright. It was after mentioning him.” Yohan’s thoughts flitted as he recollected Kane. While pureblood vampires often exerted control over each other, Kane was somewhat exceptional.

“If Kane intervenes this time, what’s our plan?”

In reply to Yohan’s inquiry, Nox turned his body, his gaze sharpening. Sensing he might have spoken unnecessarily, Yohan swallowed his dry saliva.

“This time, I’ll definitely end him.”

His tone was frigid, as cold as ice. A pureblood vampire was resolutely stating their intention to kill another pureblood vampire.

“Until now, we’ve been unable to find evidence and had to withdraw. Don’t let your guard down this time to prevent such a scenario from recurring.”

“Fortunately, he was reborn as a man. It’s a bit bewildering, but I probably didn’t anticipate that Kane would also be a man.”

Yohan’s expression became intricate. While it was accurate that he had spent quite some time trying to deduce it, given that Kane hadn’t caught on immediately, the fact that Nox’s companion was a man was indeed unexpected.

Nox smirked, raising the corner of his mouth. As Kane’d been reincarnating as a woman each time, he assumed this life would follow suit. However, upon encountering Shinbihan, he realized the appearance was the same as when they’d first met, making it unmistakable. Despite Yohan only being familiar with Kane’s female appearance, Kane’s initial life had been male. This information was solely known to Nox.

Regardless of gender, it was immaterial. There was only one person for Nox.

“Considering he followed us today, he’s probably sensed his presence by now. What’s our next step?”

“This time, we must ensure his protection diligently, regardless of the circumstances.”

Sitting across from Yohan, Nox responded casually.

“Summon Daniel and Noel.”

“Both?”

Daniel and Noel were Nox’s subordinates, akin to his kind among vampires. While exceptional even among vampires, Nox rarely gave them direct orders. Calling them here was a clear declaration of his resolve not to let Kane be taken from him this time.

“I’m unsure about Daniel, but Noel…”

Yohan’s eyebrows furrowed as his sentence trailed off. Nox turned back, a questioning look in his eyes.

“Noel harbors feelings for you, making it uncertain whether he’d willingly comply with orders to protect your companion, considering he knows your fondness for him.”

Yohan couldn’t bring himself to continue. Nox likely already knew. Yet, whether known or not, it held no relevance. Eventually, Yohan nodded in agreement and withdrew. Exiting the room, Yohan sighed softly, sensing that things would become even more tumultuous once Noel entered.

After Yohan departed, Nox approached the window and stood beside it. With a simple gesture, the window swung open. Whoosh. His form transformed into dark smoke, dispersing and flying out through the open window.

“Feeling like a drink?”

Leaving the police station, Jiwon playfully draped an arm around Beohan’s neck. The investigation hadn’t made any headway, and he grumbled, puffing his cheeks, about the sheer amount of memorization required. While Beohan typically tried to soothe his irritability, he was genuinely worn out today. The constant back-and-forth between the aquarium and the National Institute of Science and Technology had taken its toll. Furthermore, meeting Nox had left him with a heavy sensation in his chest.

“Maybe next time. I’m pretty exhausted today.”

As the thought crossed his mind, an inexplicable ache twinged in his heart. Absently, he tapped his chest while responding.

“Why are you tired from doing nothing?”

“Your basic stamina is on a whole different level.”

“Why do you seem so delicate?”

Delicate… A dry chuckle escaped from Beohan, who was taken aback, as he regarded Jiwon. Meanwhile, he himself was perfectly fine. This guy was just incredibly energetic.

“If you’re bored, why not go grab a drink with the Chief?”

“Ugh, are you out of your mind?”

Observing Jiwon’s genuine confusion, Beohan smirked and turned away. Waving his hand in a goodbye gesture, he ignored Jiwon’s slight disappointment and pretended not to be bothered.

As he made his way to catch the bus, he sensed he was being watched. He glanced behind him, but the crowd consisted only of busy office workers heading home, and no one seemed to be staring particularly at him. Was he just being overly self-conscious? He sighed and continued walking, a touch uneasy.

Little did he know, atop a tall skyscraper, distanced from the crowd, a solitary, upright black shadow stood.

Zing. His heart gave an inexplicable jolt. Perhaps it was worth considering a trip to the hospital.

Beohan’s gaze met Nox’s eyes. Among the distant throng of people, only Beohan’s figure was sharply captured by Nox’s eyes. After a brief glance, Beohan failed to register his presence. As Nox’s observing gaze turned red, a bright light emerged and vanished around Beohan’s heart area simultaneously. The energy Nox left for Beohan in the aquarium resonated with him. Even the imprint of a long-lost soul seemed to resonate in unison.

Beohan tightened his fist around his heart and pressed forward. Nox remained there, silently watching over him without any movement.

***

“Lately, a series of unusual murder cases have been taking place. The body discovered last night in the Yongsan-gu Huam-dong residential area shares many similarities with a murder case that occurred in Jongno-gu two days ago. Both cases resulted in death due to excessive blood loss. However, the challenge lies in the absence of any signs of bleeding at the location where the bodies were found or in their vicinity. Police are investigating the possibility that the victims were killed elsewhere and then transported. In other news, politician Kim Taek-In…”

As Beohan watched the news, he caught Chief Kang’s gaze from behind. Beneath his glasses, an intense stare was fixed on the TV. Ugh. Beohan tried to stifle a groan.

In recent days, the number of peculiar murder cases covered in the news appears to be on the rise. While the news connected only two cases, there were actually two more that had gone unreported.

Previously, the murder cases had exclusively targeted young women in their 20s. Now, however, the victims were not limited by gender or age. The methods of murder had also grown more brutal. The incidents leading up to Hyein’s case had all occurred within the bedrooms of women. The culprits infiltrated silently and left without a trace.

“However, recent incidents have all occurred on the streets – in parking lots hidden from prying eyes, dark alleyways. There was no common pattern. It felt like a runaway wild horse.”

After a long pause, Chief Kang Tae-wook spoke with a serious expression. Beohan nodded in agreement. Even Jiwon’s head was nodding in agreement.

“It’s odd.”

Upon hearing Beohan’s words, both Chief Kang and Jiwon simultaneously turned their attention.

“They too have their own rules, so they don’t recklessly attack people…”

Beohan was about to continue when he noticed his words trailing off due to the focused gazes of the two men upon him.

“Who’s that? Nox, that guy?”

Jiwon asked, wide-eyed in astonishment.

“Well…”

Once he responded, he found it rather absurd. The fact that he had begun to trust Nox’s words like unshakeable truths left him dumbfounded. Trusting the words of a prime suspect in an ongoing investigation, even though he wasn’t an ordinary person but a detective… he sighed at the realization of how he seemed to have lost his rationality.

“That’s a valid point.”

Before he could delve further into self-doubt, Chief Kang interjected to support Beohan’s statement.

“Furthermore, I’ve reached out to the International Hunter Association for inquiries. It seems that, even though it’s been a while since ancient times, there’s some form of understanding between vampires and humans. Rather than indulging in indiscriminate killings, they keep their existence hidden. There are occasional rule-breakers among them, so while this kind of thing isn’t completely unheard of, it’s relatively rare.”

“True. People are like that too.”

“Regardless, this is a breach of the rules. It’s outright murder.”

“Can we apprehend those individuals on our side?”

“We should. Isn’t that the purpose of the special investigation team?”

Chief Kang shrugged his shoulders. The mention that the situation could escalate to the point of involving KP-SWAT (Korean National Police Agency’s Special Weapons and Tactics) made Beohan feel an unexpected tension.

“Guess there’s no war with vampires.”

Amid Jiwon’s grumbling, Beohan grinned and commented, still quite composed. He drew his chair closer to the monitor to organize the information related to the incident mentioned in the news. However, before he could start, the intercom on Chief Kang’s desk buzzed. The expressions of all three men stiffened in unison as their attention shifted to the intercom.

“Yes, this is the Special Investigations Team.”

Chief Kang pressed the intercom and responded.

“We have an incident. A corpse has been found near Ishu Station in Dongjak-gu…”

Before they could hear the rest of the message, both Beohan and Jiwon had already risen from their seats, grabbing their jackets.

***

After presenting their IDs, Beohan entered the police perimeter and observed the body. As the white cloth was lifted, two distinct puncture wounds were visible on the neck. Although these marks hadn’t been revealed to the media yet, he wondered how long they could keep them hidden. If someone else had noticed them as clearly as he had, it was likely rumors might start spreading soon.

Chief Kang was interrogating the individual who’d initially discovered the body, while Jiwon scanned the surroundings. Beohan stepped beyond the police cordon, taking in the scene. It was a scarcely populated alley, yet just a block away laid a bustling shopping district. His courage was growing.

Contemplating the news report’s suggestion that the bodies had been relocated after the murders, he walked slowly. As he distanced himself from the police presence, the surroundings transformed into a tranquil residential area. It featured a gently sloping uphill street bordered by trees on both sides. Occasional streetlights illuminated the path.

Swooosh. The wind rustled through the branches with a robust sound. His bangs fluttered, and in the moment he tried to sweep them aside with his hand, a chilling sensation brushed over him—an eerie aura.

Instinctively, he turned his body sideways, and a sharp object whizzed past him. Swiveling his head to ascertain the source, he saw the dark figure lunging again. He attempted to evade, but his assailant’s agility was far superior. It resembled more of an animal than a human. His jacket tore, and a lengthy gash formed on his left arm.

“Ugh!”

The searing pain caused him to tightly grip his injured arm. Instantly, his palm was stained with crimson blood. Gasp. The unfamiliar sound led him to wonder whether it was indeed an animal. Lifting his head, his eyes widened as he contemplated whether it might be an actual creature.

Despite the figure seeming to have a human form, it was anything but human. Crimson eyes, pointed fangs, and claws as keen as a predator’s… ‘Monster.’ The word flashed through Beohan’s mind, inducing a dry swallow.

The figure lunged once more. He attempted to dodge, yet his body remained immobile. His opponent’s movements far outpaced any effort he could muster.

Shhhhk. Razor-edged claws descended. He anticipated impact, raising his right hand to shield his face, but survival seemed improbable. Yet, the anticipated torment never arrived.

Upon prying open his tightly shut eyes, he encountered a silhouette positioned before him, obstructing his view. Through the waist-length curtain of inky black hair, he immediately recognized the individual.

Nox had intercepted the assailant’s claws with his forearm. The intense pain prompted blood to ooze, yet Nox’s countenance remained unaltered. His crimson irises emitted a crimson glow. As their gazes locked, the attacker flinched and recoiled.

“Do you have a death wish?!”

The frigid voice resonated devoid of any discernible emotion. Even Beohan, positioned behind Nox, felt a shiver crawl down his spine. The man who had always been lingering upfront was not who he appeared to be. Beohan gaped at Nox, unable to blink.

With the claws embedded in his arm, Nox seized the attacker’s throat. A strangled sound escaped as the man struggled for breath. Nox’s incisive claws bore into the man’s neck, reminiscent of blades sinking into flesh.

“What’s your name?”

The question was reiterated, yet the man merely writhed, withholding any response. Kane. Two syllables flowed from Nox’s lips. Simultaneously, the man quivered uncontrollably. Nox knitted his brows and raised his opposite hand, plunging it into the man’s chest. As the elongated claw pierced the man’s heart, a piercing scream rang the air. Beohan’s hand flew to his mouth in disbelief.

Sffshh. The man, ensnared in Nox’s grip, disintegrated into a heap of ashes, dissipating into the air. Phew. After a protracted exhale, Nox turned to face Beohan. Fatigued, Beohan’s legs faltered, and he sank to the ground.

He struggled to fathom what he had just witnessed. His fingertips continued to tremble. Nox extended his hand and gently enveloped Beohan’s quaking hand. Taking a seat, he bent one knee and locked gazes with Beohan.

No inquiries about his well-being or injuries were posed. A faint smile was all Nox offered. Yet for some inexplicable reason, Beohan clenched his teeth. Nox’s smile carried such a poignant sorrow that it felt as if his heart was being torn asunder.

Grace Hotel, top floor. Beohan was seated in the same living room he had visited a few days earlier. Nox, his expression now stern, entered carrying a small box and took a seat opposite Beohan. Quickly, he extended his arm, causing Beohan to unconsciously tense up. The sharp claws that he had glimpsed earlier seemed to hang over his hand like an apparition.

It was merely a hallucination. Nox’s hand had returned to its normal state.

Exhaling audibly, Nox reached out and grasped Beohan’s left arm. When Beohan removed his jacket, he noticed that his shirt had also been torn. Lifting his shirt, he examined the wound. The bleeding ceased, but the gash was fairly deep. Nox’s expression grew even more serious.

“That must have been painful.”

The sensation wasn’t confined to his ears; it resonated through his heart. Beohan shifted his gaze to study Nox’s face. He couldn’t understand why Nox, who hadn’t suffered any injury, was wearing an expression of pain.

Ah…!

It suddenly dawned on him that he had indeed been stabbed by the attacker’s claws. Beohan swiftly grabbed Nox’s arm and turned it over. His clothing was also in tatters. As he lifted the sleeve of Nox’s attire and inspected it, his eyes widened.

There was no evidence of the injury. Despite the torn clothing and the visible flow of blood, Nox’s arm was pristine, devoid of any indication of a wound.

“How…?”

Taken aback, he struggled to find the right words. He stared, unblinking, only to witness Nox crack a wry smile.

“Because I’m not human.”

Nox’s smile held a touch of irony. He then raised the index claw of his left hand and brushed it across his right arm. A faint groan escaped him, and droplets of blood formed. Perplexed by this action, Beohan frowned and observed. The wound before his eyes slowly healed. Starting from where it had been, it vanished right in front of him. Not a trace remained, not even a hint of where the blood had emerged from. Only peculiarly shaped droplets of blood on his skin endured.

Tsk. Beohan stifled his groan. He was aware. No, he believed he was aware. He knew that Nox was a vampire, yet witnessing this once again left his thoughts in disarray.

The image of the man turning into ashes before his eyes resurfaced in his mind. Irrespective of the fact that the man had attacked him first, it was undeniably murder. Nox had driven his heart through with his claws, killing him. Having observed the scene, it was logical to arrest him for murder. Nevertheless, there was no cadaver left. How could they possibly locate the dispersed remnants in the air? From the beginning, it had been a clash between vampires. Did it make sense to apply a murder charge? After all, the charge of murder was applicable only to protected beings who were human. Vampires were not human, were they?

‘Because I’m not human.’

Those words resonated differently this time. Not human… That’s it. No matter how convincingly they assumed human form, Nox was not a human; he was a vampire, a monstrosity.

Monster. As he recollected the vampire with crimson eyes, bared fangs, and sharp claws reminiscent of a beast, a cold shiver raced through his veins. The horror was far more intense than he’d imagined.

“Did I frighten you?”

Nox’s words abruptly halted Beohan’s train of thought. Beohan, unable to even blink, fixedly stared at him. Frightened…? No, that wasn’t quite it. He was indeed taken aback, yet it was a slightly different sensation from fear. Truth be told, when he had witnessed the vampire attacking him, a chill had run down his spine. But Nox…

The image of Nox blocking his path floated into his mind. If Nox hadn’t intervened, he might have fallen victim to the vampire. Among the police officers, Beohan wasn’t physically the strongest. No, even if it had been Jiwon, confronting the previous assailant would not have been easy.

Beohan slowly lifted his head.

“I’m not afraid.”

Perhaps due to dropping of formal speech, Nox gazed at Beohan intently.

“You’re using informal speech.”

With a gruff response and averted gaze, Nox’s lips curled into a smile. Ah, that’s how it was. He casually replied as if it held no importance, and then once again took hold of Beohan’s arm. Retrieving antiseptic from a medical kit, he applied it to a cotton ball and began cleaning the wounded area. As the alcohol touched the exposed wound, Beohan involuntarily winced, causing his brow to furrow.

“Just bear with it.”

Nox’s resolute command ignited a sense of defiance for no particular reason.

“Alright. My wound will heal quickly too.”

After completing the disinfection, Nox glanced up. A mischievous smile danced at the corner of his lips.

“No need to be jealous. You can do it as well.”

What did he mean by that? Beohan blinked in confusion. It appeared that Nox had no immediate plans to explain, as he simply chuckled playfully. Finding it futile to decipher his words, Beohan shook his head and looked away. However, Nox’s gaze remained fixed on his face, unyielding.

Why… Why was he looking at him with such eyes? Why did he suddenly mention wanting to be his lover?

Ah…! He recalled the words Nox had spoken on the day they first met, the day Hyein had died.

‘Dragostea Mea.’

Did he say “My love”? Why would he utter such a thing right after they’d met?

“Dragostea Mea.”

As Beohan uttered the two words, the smile faded from Nox’s face. Observing his reflection in Nox’s deeply-set eyes, Beohan’s heart twinged once again. It was a complex feeling, a blend of pain and a fluttering sensation that was hard to define.

“It means ‘my love’…”

Mumbling awkwardly, Beohan hesitated, but Nox’s smile brightened a little, indicating he clearly understood the meaning. He didn’t deny it. This only further complicated Beohan’s emotions.

“Why?”

Frowning, Beohan inquired. Nox’s sudden proposition to become lovers had been strange, but honestly, what’d been even more bewildering was the declaration of “my love” when they first saw each other.

Nox hesitated as well, not intending to evade the question. He wasn’t ready to reveal everything just yet. Even if he were to explain, Beohan wouldn’t believe it. Even without memories, Beohan’s heart resonated with him. It had been engraved with a mark, so when they drew close, whether desired or not, their hearts would resonate.

Yet, this aspect posed a dilemma for Nox too. His soul bore an imprint, making it unclear whether Beohan was drawn to him or if he simply desired the person he was. It was a recurring uncertainty. That’s why his hesitation was even more pronounced.

However, he couldn’t keep everything hidden. Kane had begun to notice Beohan’s existence and had taken action. Whether to figure out how to protect his body or to follow Kane’s instructions, he would have to address it.

Nox raised his hand and gradually lifted it. Beohan’s gaze followed his fingertip’s movement. His hand paused near Beohan’s heart.

“What are you… Ugh!”

A tingling sensation started to gather around his heart, causing a throbbing ache. Beohan raised his right hand and clutched his chest. It was the most intense pain he had felt thus far.

“This is proof.”

The light emitted enough intensity to be felt through his clothes. The phenomenon caught Beohan off guard, more bewildering than painful, causing his eyes to widen.

“This shows you belong to me.”

“I… belong…?”

After discussing lovers and love, now it was about belonging. Beohan was taken aback to the point where he felt like retreating, yet he couldn’t explain the reaction of his heart.

“Long ago, I chose you as my mate. This resonance is the mark engraved upon you.”

It was a string of bewildering tales. “Long ago”… Did that imply in a past life? Well, discussing past lives was absurd. What period was this? To speak of past lives… impossible. Right in front of him was a vampire. With a vampire present, discussing past lives held no logical ground.

Even with all that, the notion that he was this man’s, this vampire’s, mate was utterly unbelievable.

“Whatever trick you’re employing, with this peculiar light…!”

His words couldn’t reach their conclusion as his body leaned forward. It was Nox’s grip on Beohan’s arm that pulled him in this direction. Drawing from past encounters, Beohan quickly covered his mouth with his opposite hand. Amusement danced in Nox’s expression. As he had anticipated, Beohan thought, feeling relief, but then his eyes widened even more than before.

Nox lowered his head and pressed his lips against Beohan’s wounded arm. It wasn’t the stinging pain, but an eerie chill that made his body shudder.

“You mentioned how you envied the swift healing of wounds. No need for envy. You can do it too.”

The meaning lay beyond his understanding. Just being around this man induced a nonsensical effect, making his thoughts buzz.

“If we forge an even deeper connection…”

Without comprehending, Beohan could only blink. Nox responded with a sly wink. That wink, carrying an extra layer of provocation, caused Beohan’s face to flush with heat as he grasped the implications of Nox’s words.

“That’s absurd…”

Beohan’s sentence was left unfinished as his eyes widened. Nox pushed his shoulders and laid him down on the couch, then positioned himself above Beohan. The directness of their gaze left Beohan’s mouth dry.

As their faces drew nearer, the overwhelming closeness caused Beohan to tightly close his eyes. The sensation of warm breath brushing his face soon led to their lips meeting.

Their lips pressed together more intensely than before, leaving no space for separation. Nox’s tongue slipped past their connected lips, exploring and teasing. The feeling of his tongue tracing every nook and cranny of his mouth was dizzying.

In a bid to shove him away, Beohan raised his hand, yet the sensation of Nox’s lips against the roof of his mouth startled him, and his body trembled. He realized he was involuntarily clutching Nox’s collar, preventing him from retreating. Despite this, Beohan decisively bit down on Nox’s probing tongue. Nox winced in pain, his brow furrowing, but he persisted.

The metallic tang of blood mingled within his mouth. Whether due to the prolonged, nearly suffocating kiss or the stimulating scent of blood, dizziness began to set in. 

When Beohan ceased resisting, the kiss grew notably gentler. Nox lowered his gaze and inspected Beohan’s arm wound. As saliva mixed in, a faint radiance began to envelop the injury. Then, as Beohan bit Nox’s tongue and his blood flowed into Beohan’s mouth, the radiance dramatically intensified.

Clearly, the reaction to blood was quicker than to saliva.

Nox’s hand slipped between the folds of Beohan’s shirt. As his fingertips met bare skin, Beohan’s body shivered. Nox took of his shirt altogether, using the palm of his hand to stroke Beohan’s bare chest. Beohan lifted his hand to push Nox away, but Nox promptly seized his wrist.

“Tsk!”

As their connected lips parted, a brief moan escaped. Nox tilted his head, burying his face in the crook of Beohan’s neck. When Nox’s tongue traced the path from his neck to his shoulder, Beohan involuntarily shuddered.

A sweet scent of blood reverberated from his neck. Unconsciously, his fangs emerged. Just before he could sink them, he restrained himself. Not yet… this needed Beohan’s consent. Amid the burning thirst, his eyes turned red, but after taking a deep breath, they returned to their bluish-grey hue.

Forcefully pushing Nox away, Beohan glared at him. He adjusted his collar, his lips coated in a thin layer of blood. Nox, in response, smiled at him. Annoyed to the point of potential outburst, Beohan gestured toward the wound on his arm, signifying the reason.

“…How…?” 

Beohan’s eyes trembled. The wound had clearly healed more than before the ointment was applied, now leaving only faint traces.

“If the fusion had been successful, complete healing might have been achievable.”

Upon receiving the nonchalant response, his body relaxed, and he sank against the couch, concealing his face with his hands. Nox was a vampire, which could possibly account for this. But why him? He couldn’t make any sense of it. Was it because of their kiss? A mate? He couldn’t understand why he, a mere human, would react this way to a kiss from him.

“What did you do to me?”

Moving his hand away from his face, he looked at Nox and asked.

Nox bent his knees, taking a seat in front of Beohan to meet his eye level. The phrase ‘what did you do’ was accurate. He’d transformed him from what he was meant to be, to no longer an ordinary human.

Where should he begin explaining? Each time he encountered him in a different life, he grappled with this dilemma. And every time, he couldn’t fully reveal everything. Perhaps this time wouldn’t be an exception either.

It wasn’t about their past lives, but about his current self, the present version of him, that Nox hoped to choose. He believed that even if they had to start anew, with time and effort, they could make things work. However, the circumstances were less than favorable. Kane was already aware of Beohan’s existence. He couldn’t afford to be careless this time.

With resolve in his heart, Nox caught the edge of Beohan’s shirt. As Beohan attempted to push him away frantically, a struggle ensued.

“And this again…! What are you doing? Take your hands off me!”

“Hush. Just stay still.”

In contrast to Beohan, Nox remained composed. Meeting Beohan’s glare, he smiled and even joked, “I won’t devour you… yet.”

Though Beohan couldn’t fully grasp his intentions, he could sense that Nox wouldn’t cause harm. Unlike before, there was nothing overtly suggestive in his actions. For now, Beohan chose to feign sleep and observe. He said he wouldn’t devour him… That statement oddly provided a sense of comfort, leaving him bewildered by his own reaction.

Nox, who had drawn Beohan’s shirt up to his chest, drew nearer. Beohan attempted to scream and struggle, but Nox had one hand supporting his back, preventing his escape.

A delicate touch. When Nox’s lips grazed the hollow of Beohan’s chest, a shiver ran through his body. Stealing a glance at Nox, who had lowered his gaze slightly, Beohan’s cheeks flushed with heat. The embarrassment became overwhelming. Gripping Nox’s shoulders, he pushed him away, expecting more resistance.

Nox’s gaze remained fixed on Beohan’s chest. Beohan’s eyes widened, following the natural course. At the edge of his consciousness, he recalled the unfamiliar tattoo pattern. Memories were linked to such a mark, memories of a wound he hadn’t inflicted upon himself. It was solely the result of Nox’s earlier kiss, yet he couldn’t comprehend why such a design had emerged.

“A marking of the soul.”

The response came from Nox’s lips. Their eyes locked, and he smiled hazily again.

“It’s proof that I chose you as my mate a long time ago.”

Extending his hand, he caught hold of Beohan’s arm. With his fingertip, he traced the faint scar, wearing a wry smile.

“Your body responds to me, to my blood.”

Beohan remained fixated on Nox, unable to move. The explanation hinted at something he partially understood, only deepening the confusion in his mind.

Even though it’s over, Nox still went out of his way to drive Beohan home. Nox mentioned he could stay at the hotel, but Beohan found the idea revolting. He had come to fully grasp how Nox saw him, so he had no intention of spending the night in a situation he likened to a tiger’s den. Even though Nox might joke about forcefully taking him, he disliked that idea. Or, to be exact, he couldn’t comprehend why he was so affected by the thought.

With a distinct click, Nox shut the car door and rolled down the window as he approached Beohan.

“Try not to go out alone, especially during the investigation.”

He wanted to snap at Nox to avoid meddling in unnecessary affairs, but the events of the day kept replaying in his mind, so he merely clenched his teeth.

“I might develop a taste for blood.”

Muttering, Nox observed Beohan’s lips, now white from being bitten so hard.

“Turn it off.”

Despite Nox’s cold tone, a smile lingered on his face.

“Did you forget something? I’m the one who reacts most sensitively to your blood.”

It could indicate his response to Beohan’s blood as a vampire. But, why did that statement carry such suggestive undertones? Beohan couldn’t discern whether he was reading too much into it or if Nox was genuinely implying something else. It all stemmed from that mischievous smile.

Exiting the car, Nox approached Beohan. Brushing his thumb against Beohan’s lips, he then leaned in and whispered into his ear.

“Don’t forget, your blood calls out to vampires.”

When Beohan attempted to shove him away out of frustration, Nox swiftly caught his wrist. Without delay, he pressed a kiss on Beohan’s cheek before taking a step back, revealing his empty hands. Shamelessly, Nox’s actions failed to rile any anger in Beohan.

Even after watching Beohan enter his house, Nox lingered for a while. The alley was deserted, likely due to the late hour. Leaning against his car with arms crossed, he raised his head as a shadow fell across him.

“It’s been a while.”

The other person initiated the greeting. Nox’s demeanor, which had shown some indifference towards Beohan, now turned coolly composed.

“Happy to see me?”

Could he genuinely be delighted? Nox remained silent. A playful face suddenly entered Nox’s field of vision. His crimson eyes, akin to Nox’s, sparkled in the lamplight. Tap, his gaze shifted toward the direction of Beohan’s room. Nox’s eyes grew sharper.

“It’s complicated when your mate’s a man…”

A faint smile danced on his lips. A smirk formed at the corner of his mouth as he continued to gaze at Beohan. Nox’s eyes, once tranquil as he observed, now turned crimson.

“It won’t pose a problem.”

With a decisive response, his smile faded. He slightly widened his eyes before curving his lips upward.

“Is that so? Quite intriguing.”

Intriguing… Nox straightened up, his smile softening.

“Kane.”

Calling his name, Nox turned to face him.

“Do as you please.”

Nox’s smile deepened. However, his gaze remained frigid and distant.

“This time, you’ll undoubtedly pay the price.”

For a moment, Kane’s expression froze, but he quickly broke into a cheerful smile.

“Shall we make a bet? Will your mate fall in love with you this time, or…”

A devilish smile twisted across Kane’s face.

“Will they betray you again?”

***

An hour had elapsed since Beohan had lain down in bed. Tossing and turning, he eventually abandoned the bed and approached the window. Overwhelmed by a sense of suffocation, he flung the window open, inviting in the refreshing night breeze. He perched on the windowsill, absentmindedly gazing outside.

Suddenly, he sensed a fleeting presence around him, an intuition that someone might be nearby. Someone… Without realizing it, his thoughts drifted to Nox.

“I was planning to leave with you. If I hadn’t been ambushed and sentenced to execution as a witch while you were briefly absent, I likely would have left. By the time I returned, you’d already been executed. All I could do was imprint myself as your mate within your soul. So that you would recognize me even in your next life.”

Throughout his narration of the past life he couldn’t recall, Nox appeared sorrowful. That expression remained indelible. Even if it transpired centuries ago, he seemed haunted by it when speaking of it even now.

Could he have loved him so deeply as to unhesitatingly choose a human as his mate? After hundreds of years and multiple rebirths, did he still love him with the same intensity, still seek him? The nature of that emotion was beyond his comprehension.

And what about me? Who am I?

When he turned the question inward, he grew even more perplexed. Did his past self love Nox? Was he aware that Nox was a vampire? Or did he fall in love unknowingly? Unlike Nox, he lacked memories, so there was no way he could know.

Beohan lowered his head. The significance of his past life… what did it truly hold? Even if he had loved Nox in a previous life, did that dictate his current feelings? Even if a past life existed, it was confined to history. It held no relevance to his present self.

The situation of Nox still addressing him as his mate, and the fact that his heart raced uncontrollably whenever their paths crossed, were two distinct issues.

Setting aside Nox’s emotions and circumstances, he resolved to first contemplate his own desires. Nevertheless, the answer wasn’t straightforward. Did the palpitation in his heart each time he saw Nox stem from the mark Nox had left, or was it purely his own emotions? He couldn’t discern.

His hand rose to his lips, evoking sensations from the kiss with Nox, igniting a fire within him. Perplexed by his own actions, he quickly withdrew his hand, yet a tingling sensation remained on his lips. It was as though Nox’s fiery tongue continued to tease him.

This time, his hand moved to his chest, lifting his clothing slightly. He discovered that the pattern he had noticed earlier in the day had disappeared. Could it all have been an illusion? The sense of reality was so weak that he began to question whether everything was a hallucination.

“Dragostea mea…” Nox’s gentle voice from before reverberated in his ear.

“My love… My mate…” The image of Nox’s face gazing at him with increasing clarity resurfaced in his mind.

Ugh. Emitting a mixture of a sigh and a groan, he stood up from his seat. It appeared too late to deny that it no longer concerned him.

“Kane is after you. So it’s best to be cautious.”

Though Nox had spoken those words, they triggered memories of the recent string of vampire-related murders. If that were the case… If those killings were an attempt to locate Nox’s mate, in other words, to find him…

His breath caught. He couldn’t help but consider that Hyein’s death might also be connected to him.

What should he do… What laid ahead…

Despite pondering incessantly, the answer remained elusive. The idea of time progressing in this manner became increasingly unsettling.

“Click, click, click.” The sound of mouse clicks persisted. Biting down on a pencil, fiddling with it between his fingers, and twirling it around, Jiwon, who had been squirming in his chair, suddenly brought the chair closer to Beohan’s side.

“Why are you so absorbed in that?”

“Just… sort of…”

Unsatisfied with the response, Jiwon leaned over to take a look at Beohan’s monitor. He tended to get nauseous when looking at a computer, yet seemed to be managing quite well, spending the entire day with Jiwon.

“What’s this? A vampire list?”

Although he recognized the screen immediately, having recently memorized the vampire list provided by the supervisor, Jiwon raised the question.

“What’s the purpose? Do you catch them if you happen to encounter them on the street?”

In response to Jiwon’s typical inquiry, Beohan broke into a faint smile. Jiwon was quite a character. Whenever they interacted, he found himself forgetting about the frustrating things and laughing carelessly.

“Oh!”

The scrolling screen suddenly froze. The details of ‘Kane Valas Pia Che Grace,’ one of the leaders of the pureblood clan, appeared on the screen.

“It’s Kane. I suppose they want you to remember it separately, just in case.”

Jiwon grumbled softly. Thankfully, there weren’t many purebloods. Otherwise, he thought he might have gone insane trying to memorize them all. Kane? When Beohan inquired, Jiwon shook his head.

“His first name is excessively long, anyway. So, I assume everyone calls him Kane, much like how they refer to Noxferia as just Nox.”

Beohan had been curious about his first name, but as Nox had mentioned, ‘Kane’ seemed to be the accurate version.

“Why Kane?”

Jiwon asked again, but instead of replying, Beohan looked up Kane’s entry record.

“What’s this?!”

Jiwon’s eyes widened beside him. He scooted his chair closer, as if he wanted to peer through the monitor with his face.

“Three years ago?”

His voice elongated, emphasizing the point.

“Did you enter three years ago?”

Pointing to the entry date on the monitor with his finger, he inquired. Jiwon’s observation was correct. Kane had indeed entered three years ago as the head of a resort construction project in Gray Concherne.

“But why wasn’t he flagged in the investigation?”

“Because the incident occurred long before that. They probably started checking vampire entry records just before the incident.”

Even if there were vampires already in the country, they wouldn’t have been aware of their existence prior to the incident. Furthermore, it wouldn’t have crossed their minds that someone who entered the country a few years ago would pose a problem now.

“He made a foolish decision. If that’s the scenario, it suggests that there might be more individuals involved, not just this person.”

“Exactly.”

“Ugh! How much more do I have to memorize!”

Upon realizing the increasing number of vampires he needed to commit to memory, Jiwon let out a frustrated cry. Beohan chuckled and reassuringly patted his shoulder.

“Let’s step out for a moment.”

“To where?”

Since it wasn’t about memorization but rather leaving, Jiwon immediately perked up again. It was a direct and clear suggestion.

“Let’s start by revisiting the initial crime scene and reviewing everything once again. Broadening our perspective might help us identify something we missed.”

Suggesting they leave together, Jiwon swiftly followed Beohan like an energetic puppy. It appeared he was eager to get out of the office. In reality, there wasn’t a strong need for Beohan to accompany Jiwon. He could have easily explored on his own.

“Try not to go alone if possible.”

It wasn’t because of Nox’s words. It was in case they encountered another vampire, having Jiwon along would increase the chances of making an arrest compared to being alone. That was the primary reason.

Going through each location except for Hyein’s house, they meticulously examined for any overlooked details. To be thorough, Beohan even printed photos of prominent vampires currently in Korea and showed them to neighbors to check if anyone recognized them. It might have been an unrefined approach, but there was no investigative method as reliable as thinking on your feet. Unfortunately, their efforts yielded no results.

Taking a break, Jiwon entered a convenience store and handed Beohan a cold canned drink he had taken from the fridge. Beohan, seated on a bench, let out a sigh of relief.

“Gosh, this is tiring. Is one of these guys even in these photos?”

Jiwon spread the photos like a deck of cards. The weather had turned quite hot. Walking around in this heat caused sweat to form on their foreheads. Jiwon laid the photos on the table like a fan, and looking exhausted himself, he pressed his face against the table.

“This one and that one… They’re ridiculously good-looking.”

Ironically, the photos at the top were of Nox and Kane. Although the other vampires were also striking, these two particularly stood out, perhaps due to their pureblood status. During their investigation, even middle-aged women had stopped to ask if they were movie actors. Beohan briefly glanced at the photos and then averted his gaze without a word.

“Maybe all foreigners look good, huh?”

Trying to lighten the mood, Jiwon playfully responded, “Is that the case?”

“Well, of course, I must be good-looking too, right?”

Jiwon started boasting about himself. He continued to extol his good looks, athletic prowess, and pleasant personality. It seemed he wouldn’t stop until Beohan acknowledged it.

“Yeah, yeah, you’re cute enough.”

“Oh, come on! Cute? Tell that to the boss lady. But, honestly, Chief Kang was quite handsome in a rugged way.”

The conversation took an unexpected turn. Beohan was curious why Kang suddenly came up. Jiwon seemed lost in thought for a moment and then suddenly exclaimed, “Ah!” before grabbing his head in frustration. In any case, even if he left Jiwon alone to amuse himself, it wasn’t boring to observe.

While Jiwon remained energetic, Beohan was gradually succumbing to the heat. Sipping his drink in silence, he suddenly realized that someone had positioned themselves in front of him. With the abrupt shade, he lifted his head, wondering who it could be.

Recently, I’ve grown quite accustomed to him showing up whenever he wants. To think I was expecting to run into him in such an unexpected place…

The man stood with his hands in his pockets, striking a somewhat arrogant pose as he gazed down at Beohan. Beohan had been avoiding him, wondering, “What’s this guy up to again?” But then, in response to a fleeting thought, his head suddenly jerked up. Their eyes met behind the sunglasses.

Kane…!

Recognizing him, Beohan quickly stood up from his seat, causing the chair to wobble and fall backward with a clatter. The noise caught Jiwon’s attention, who had been looking elsewhere.

“What’s happening? What’s going on?”

As Jiwon asked, Beohan’s gaze remained fixed on Kane. Only after a moment did Jiwon follow Beohan’s gaze and turn his head. After staring for a while, Beohan pointed his finger at Kane.

“Oh! A pureblood!!”

His voice was so loud that everyone passing by turned to look. Unfazed by the lack of tension, Beohan covered his face with his hand. He wanted to signal Jiwon to stay quiet, so he forcefully covered Jiwon’s mouth to suppress his words.

With a sly smile, Kane waved.

“Thanks for recognizing me.”

In response to the cheeky greeting, Jiwon merely pursed his lips. Despite all the talk about vampires and such, encountering one in person was a first for him, and his mixed emotions were evident on his face.

Kane casually pulled out a chair and took a seat. Then he gestured with his eyes for Beohan to sit as well. With a dry gulp, Beohan managed to suppress his nervousness. Although he placed the fallen chair back in its position, he wasn’t entirely sure if sitting face-to-face with Kane was the right move. Glancing at Jiwon, he saw that Jiwon wore a similar expression of confusion and kept his lips sealed.

Sighing, Beohan took a seat in front of Kane. It was midday, and the street was bustling with people. At least Kane wouldn’t suddenly lunge at him to devour him.

“Nice to meet you. Well…”

Kane’s voice trailed off, and he mischievously curled up the corner of his mouth.

“Would it be more appropriate to say it’s been a while?”

Beohan’s eyebrows twitched. He vaguely understood the meaning of the word “a while” that Kane had used. It referred to their meeting from a past life, an encounter that had occurred at an unspecified time.

Kane glanced up and down at Beohan.

“I never imagined you’d be a guy.”

With a bright smile, Beohan clenched his fists. He couldn’t help but think that Kane might have killed women because he hadn’t expected Beohan to be a man. The words almost slipped out, but he managed to suppress them with great effort, partly thanks to Jiwon’s presence beside him. Moreover, Kane couldn’t be certain yet.

“What’s this? Are you two acquainted?”

Jiwon gestured back and forth between them with his finger.

“No.”

“Right, of course you are.”

Beohan’s and Kane’s responses were contradictory. While Beohan glared at Kane, the latter remained seated with his arms crossed, wearing a relaxed expression.

“The chosen companion of the pureblood leader.”

At Kane’s straightforward response, Jiwon looked puzzled, wondering what he meant. Beohan shot Kane a stern look. Kane leaned forward, resting his hands on the table as he smiled at Beohan.

“Do you believe that?”

Upon hearing those words, Beohan’s expression quivered ever so slightly.

“Well, okay then. Let’s assume that’s the scenario.”

Kane reclined again, detecting a degree of indifference in Beohan’s response. So, he continued on his train of thought.

“But here’s the thing: why do we keep getting reborn? It can’t really be possible for a vampire’s companion to keep coming back as a human, can it?”

Beohan clenched his teeth tightly. He had pondered the same question himself. If Nox’s words were to be trusted and if he and Kane had indeed been lovers in multiple past lives, why did they keep being reincarnated?

“What if this connection is one-sided?”

While Jiwon’s eyes flitted around in utter confusion, Beohan, on the other hand, absorbed Kane’s words with clear comprehension. He couldn’t doubt Nox’s intentions. The way Nox looked at him was always intense, sometimes exuding a desire that bordered on being frightening.

“What if the imprint of a companion was forcefully imposed on someone who despised it?”

Thump, thump. His heart raced. Beohan found himself unable to counter, and Kane’s smile deepened.

“If you had rejected him, perhaps you wouldn’t have fully embraced the role of a perfect companion.”

Kane’s words were purely speculative, yet they stirred further bewilderment in Beohan. He had believed in his previous life that he had loved Nox. That assumption had anchored him. Yet, Kane now introduced the possibility that it might not have been the case. With a calm smile, Kane rose from his seat. Gradually, he approached Beohan until he stood right before him.

“Unfortunately.”

Kane extended his hand and gently brushed Beohan’s cheek. Beohan’s eyes widened, but his body remained motionless. It was as if he were caught in a trance, his movements frozen.

“Don’t place too much trust in the purebloods. Neither I nor Nox.”

Remaining seated, Kane looked up at Beohan. Beohan maintained his posture, leaning in slightly. The sudden proximity didn’t startle him much.

Kane whispered into Beohan’s ear.

“Let’s meet again, soon.”

His breath ghosted across Beohan’s skin. It wasn’t ticklish; it was unsettling. His voice held a honeyed sweetness, his smile gentle, yet it sent shivers down Beohan’s spine.

Kane offered a mischievous smile and turned away. It was only then that the tension ebbed from Beohan’s body, and his breath, warm and heavy, escaped him.

“What is he, exactly?”

As Kane moved away and Jiwon returned to his senses, he muttered as if snapping out of a trance. The residual chill didn’t leave Beohan’s skin as he placed a hand on his throat. When Kane had whispered in his ear, it felt like he could have sunk his teeth into his neck.

“He’s all cheerful talk, but his eyes don’t match. It’s unsettling.”

Jiwon shivered and shook, evidently feeling uneasy. Only now did he realize. Despite Kane’s unwavering smile, his eyes were fixed on him with a cold intensity that contrasted his cheerful demeanor.

***

“The companion being of the same gender… This is unprecedented.”

“Our esteemed pureblood. If they are of the same gender, doesn’t that negate the possibility of offspring?”

“Yet, Lord Nox desires it. We cannot dare challenge his decree.”

“Is it truly imperative for him to fulfill this consciousness within this lifetime?”

“However, further delay is not an option.”

The murmurs grew louder. Despite their animated discussions, they only prolonged the inconclusive debates. In the shadows, Nox, who had been listening to their conversation, stood up from his seat.

“Did the Council of Elders possess the authority to interfere in the matters of the pureblood’s companions?”

At the chilly comment, the surroundings quieted eerily, as if a cold shiver had gripped the air.

“They are my companions. Remember, you hold no influence over their selection.”

Nox scanned the area, where only the concealed figures in the darkness could be sensed.

“If they had the intention to meddle, shouldn’t they have curbed Kane’s actions a century ago?”

His voice was so muted that it barely reached the ears, yet beneath its tone simmered a profound and restrained anger. Nox swiftly pivoted around. None from the Council of Elders dared to speak until his back had completely vanished.

“What course of action should we take?”

Hesitation gave way to a resonating hum that surrounded them once more. The companions of the pureblood held more value than the purebloods themselves. In contrast to Nox’s imposing authority, this issue couldn’t be left solely to his discretion. The companions of the purebloods held significant importance in the continuity of the vampire lineage.

On the top floor of the Grace Hotel, Nox’s composure seemed unsettled. Johannes subtly observed him, gauging his mood.

“Is the Council’s opposition strong?”

He asked cautiously, his gaze sharpening. That look alone sufficed as a response.

“Even if there’s resistance, we’re powerless to act. Ultimately, it’s your lordship’s decision.”

“Given the inevitability, individuals seeking futile actions will likely emerge.”

Johannes stifled a sigh. The implication was that there might be those, unrelated to Kane, who had ulterior motives concerning Nox’s companion.

“How about Daniel and Noel?”

“I was just about to inform you.”

As Johannes finished speaking, a tapping sound against the window echoed ominously. Nox’s attention shifted to the source of the noise. The window swung open wide, and a swarm of black bats flew in.

“Behave normally. Avoid drawing attention.”

Tsk, Nox clicked his tongue, issuing a warning. Swiftly, the swarm of bats began to converge, gradually taking on human forms. Before he realized it, an exquisite-looking man and woman stood before him. They were similar yet distinct. Their faces seemed so youthful that it was hard to determine their age, yet their attire and expressions exuded maturity. They bowed, offering greetings and then straightening to face Nox.

“Master.”

The man, Daniel, spoke first.

“They’re both the same. Adjust your way of addressing them.”

“After a century, you’re still the same, sir.”

Despite mentioning a hundred years, the words were familiar. Their expressions remained steadfast even under Nox’s scrutiny.

“Lord Nox!”

“Noel.”

Upon hearing her name, a sweet smile graced Noel’s lips. Without hesitation, she approached Nox and placed a kiss on his cheek, resulting in a soft sound on contact. Nox observed her actions impassively.

“I can’t express how long I’ve been waiting for you to summon me.”

She draped her arms around his neck as he sat on the sofa. However, Nox intercepted her arm midway and detached her from him.

“Noel, you probably understand why I’ve summoned you.”

At the sharp comment, a smile faded from Noel’s face. Now composed, she appeared more stiff than a moment ago.

“Safeguard my companion. That’s your duty.”

A resolute command was given. Daniel obediently lowered his head in compliance, while Noel pursed her lips. Johannes looked at her with an anxious expression. However, Nox paid no heed to her reaction and left the reception room.

On the rooftop across from Beohan’s house, Noel settled down comfortably with her chin resting on her hand. She sighed lightly, producing a sound. Her gaze was fixed on the window of Beohan’s room. Through the transparent glass, she could see Beohan moving about. The face she had been covertly observing now seemed intensely focused.

“No matter how intensely you stare, it’s futile.”

Daniel, who stood beside her, spoke with an expressionless face. Noel pursed her lips, as if she disagreed with his statement. Daniel reached out and stroked her hair, as if offering comfort.

“He’s neither male nor female. It’s inherently incomprehensible.”

“Nevertheless, he’s your lord’s companion.”

Ultimately, it was an answer to the question of what she would do. Noel abruptly turned her head away. Without any particular reaction, Daniel also shifted his gaze towards Beohan.

A man…strangely, among all the appearances, he resembled the original form the most. Well, that’s to be expected, considering the lord doesn’t consider gender.

“If you can’t understand, can’t you just remove it?”

Suddenly, a voice erupted, causing both Noel and Daniel to simultaneously turn around. Their gazes turned sharp. Noel quickly stood up and positioned herself beside Daniel. Kane was standing where they looked. With his hands in his trouser pockets, he casually smiled and gave a slight nod in their direction.

“Even if the master is different, isn’t it common courtesy to show respect?”

Despite nudging at their lack of respect towards the pureblood, Noel and Daniel didn’t flinch. Kane smiled as if acknowledging that they couldn’t do anything. 

“Throughout history, those subservient to Nox have shown an exceedingly strong loyalty to him. Why is that?”

He was posing a question, but he wasn’t seeking an answer. Noel and Daniel remained silent as they listened. Their extreme tension was evident even on the surface. Their gaze remained fixed on Kane without wavering.

Kane took a step closer, gradually approaching. The space among the three was charged with tense anticipation.

His hand, rising gently, landed on Noel’s shoulder. Startled, she shivered. Kane slightly lowered his head and whispered into Noel’s ear.

“If you give me Nox’s companion, I’ll give you Nox.”

Noel’s eyes widened. Daniel swatted Kane’s hand away. With a thud, Noel seemed to snap back to her senses and clenched her teeth.

“That’s not an option.”

Even in the face of Daniel’s firm response, Kane found it amusing.

“There’s nothing that’s impossible in this world. Once again, if this companion’s consciousness fails, the bond will be severed. You’re aware of that, aren’t you?”

Daniel brushed off Kane’s words, addressing Noel. She clenched her lips tightly as if pained. Kane reached out, his hand brushing against Noel’s lips.

“Do you know what that implies? Just this once…”

His voice, infused with temptation, spread like a seductive whisper.

“Just this once, if it fails, you’ll get a chance too.”

It was almost akin to the insidious hiss of a snake. Noel clenched her fist tightly. Sharp nails dug into her palm.

Daniel wrapped his arm around Noel’s shoulder and pulled her closer. Looking at his sister, he leaned against the wall coldly. Seeing this, Kane grinned and lifted the corner of his mouth slightly.

“Noel.”

Kane called out to Noel. Startled, her shoulders trembled. As Daniel tightened his grip on her shoulder, Kane’s words resonated strongly.

“Reflect on it. Wisely.”

With a wave of his hand, he disappeared back into the darkness.

“Don’t indulge in fantasies. Our lord isn’t like that.”

Daniel asserted firmly to Noel. Noel didn’t offer any response. Her gaze returned to Beohan. Her pupils trembled slightly.