"Of course, if it helps you, Patchi."
Zeroy agreed without hesitation.
The curse in Patchouli's bloodline was troublesome. In high-intensity battles, it could cripple her. If this tool could help her resist it, even briefly, that would be invaluable.
"…"
Patchouli pressed her lips together. She had only spoken on a whim, never expecting Zeroy to agree so readily.
That said, since Zeroy had, there was no need for her to say more.
"…Then here I come."
Patchouli put on the fangs and leaned toward Zeroy.
For some reason, she felt nervous—especially with Zeroy so defenseless, her pale neck exposed before her.
"…"
Patchouli took a quiet breath, then leaned in—bite.
"…Mmh."
Zeroy let out a small sound. Worried Patchouli might misunderstand, she quickly explained.
"Uh… it just tickled a little…"
"…"
"Patchi, how does my blood taste?"
"…"
Patchouli didn't answer. Instead, she pulled back, frowning as she looked at the spot she had bitten.
"That's it? So quick."
"No… I didn't pierce your skin. Were you too tense?"
"No… well, maybe a little? It tickled, so I tensed up instinctively."
"Your body's too strong. If you don't relax, I can't bite through."
"Then I'll control myself this time."
Deep in the library, candlelight flickered among ancient shelves, parchment-scent mingling with the rune-glow of grimoires, creating a quiet, secret atmosphere.
Zeroy leaned against a desk piled high with tomes, her golden hair spilling behind her in the firelight's soft glow. She breathed in deeply, adjusting her state, then swept aside her hair and turned her head, baring her slender white neck in open invitation.
Patchouli's slim frame drew close, her hands resting lightly on Zeroy's shoulders as she gazed at that porcelain skin.
Candlelight traced a graceful line across her throat.
Patchouli leaned in, lips brushing against Zeroy's neck.
Perhaps too cautious the first time, she pressed with more force now.
Zeroy felt a sharp prick, like a needle piercing skin, followed by a faint chill.
Then Patchouli's lips moved in a light suck, sending a tingling, ambiguous sensation through her.
Zeroy could feel blood leaving her, a slow trickle drawn out. The pain vanished quickly, replaced by a strange, numbing sweetness.
Like a classic tale: when a vampire drinks blood, it doesn't hurt. It feels intoxicating instead.
Patchi even replicated that effect?
Zeroy's cheeks warmed, emerald eyes narrowing in pleasure.
Regardless, she steadied herself, reminding her this was for a reason—for Patchouli's curse.
She drew in a breath, forcing down that subtle pleasure, and asked, voice as steady as she could manage: "Patchi…? How is it? Does my blood help against the curse?"
She was also trying to distract herself.
However, Patchouli didn't respond.
Her sucking grew stronger, lips pressing tighter, her faint breaths quickening, warm against Zeroy's neck.
Zeroy felt her grip tighten on her shoulders, the hem of her purple gown trembling faintly.
In the candlelight, Patchouli's face was focused and hazy, the tips of her ears tinged red.
Maybe Zeroy's blood truly had special effects—or maybe it was the tool.
Either way, the first drop on Patchouli's tongue filled her with rich sweetness. As it slid down her throat, it spread like power through every part of her.
It felt like emptiness being filled, like rain soaking parched earth…
The sensations overwhelmed her mind, leaving only the urge to drink more.
"…"
Zeroy gave a soft laugh, trying to ease the mood. "Patchi, you're drinking awfully seriously. Don't tell me you're actually addicted to my blood?"
"…"
Patchouli's only reply was to grow fiercer.
By the time Zeroy realized, they had fallen sideways—this time Patchouli pressing her down instead.
Earlier, Zeroy had pinned Patchouli and nuzzled her. Now, Patchouli had her pinned, drinking.
"That strong a reaction?" Zeroy was startled.
Nonetheless, Patchouli didn't seem to hear.
Zeroy had no choice except to endure the tingling until Patchouli came to her senses.
"Mmh…"
About five minutes later—
"…"
Patchouli, face flushed, violet eyes shimmering, pulled away, breathing lightly as she climbed off Zeroy.
At first dazed, her gaze fell on Zeroy lying beneath her—hair tousled, cheeks red, breath uneven.
"—!"
She froze. Even though she was full, the sight of Zeroy's expression stirred her bloodlust again.
But then she saw the two small punctures on Zeroy's pale neck, thin trails of blood seeping down.
Realization hit. Her bloodlust vanished instantly.
"Zeroy! How do you feel? Are you alright?"
Even as she asked, Patchouli cast a healing spell.
Zeroy wasn't harmed. Just a bit dizzy.
Not from blood loss—Patchouli hadn't taken much, and to Zeroy, that amount was negligible.
She was dazed from sensation.
Hearing Patchouli's panicked voice, she opened her eyes.
Looking at Patchouli's now-clear gaze, she gave a faint, hazy smile.
"I'm fine… but you, Patchi—how do you feel? Did it help against the curse?"
"…Idiot. What could possibly happen to me?"
...
If you want to support, please consider Patreon, and read advanced chapters! Your support keeps this series going!
[Patreon.com/RedZTL]