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Chapter Text

Stone and nighttime. They went together like peanut butter and jelly (or a Scrap and a can of beans, in Vinnie’s case). Stone dreaded the daytime, he always preferred the nighttime, as would anybody else. It is calm, quiet, peaceful, everyone would usually be asleep or in their fancy over the top houses. Stone, however, would be outside, not in his alleyway abode but the rooftop of a random civilian’s home. He was an avid drinker, and smoker for that matter, and Skipp did not like it while Vinnie could care less. Stone always made sure the other two were fast asleep before sneaking out to the same rooftop, a lighter and a cigar in hand. He would light it and waste no time scarring his lungs away, the brightness of the full moon shining down onto his cold exterior; which he absolutely hated.

There was more to this boy than meets the eye, and Vinnie and Skipp had no idea what they were getting into when they decided to take him in. He would never really want to participate in any of Vinnie’s rightfully ridiculous schemes, stating that “he didn’t want to get in the way.” There was more to it though, and Vinnie day by day would get tired of it. Stone had barely contributed anything to help in their survival, and Skipp would always steer Vinnie away from lashing out at Stone. When they found him, they had no idea about his backstory, where he came from, or anything personal. Skipp respected Stone’s boundaries, and even with being given personal space by him Stone still did not like Skipp’s over-the-top demeanor at all (or him if we are being honest).

Nobody knew why Stone only wanted to work in the night, was it just a preference? Or it calmed him and gave him more motivation. Maybe because there were fewer people active, and it made it easier for him to go around looting the greedy town of Ramshackle? Vinnie always preferred the day, because despite it being busy it meant many opportunities to pickpocket random rich snobs. Though despite her best efforts, Stone would always find a way out of being in the sunlight.

Though tonight would not be so easy for Stone, as Vinnie surprisingly awoke from her slumber to find Stone had once again left the huddle pile. Skipp had always known about Stone’s whereabouts at night since he would feel his body shift about to get out of the pile, and Vinnie would soon find out too after Skipp had told her. He urged Vinnie to leave Stone be at night and to let him do his own thing and for a while she respected his wishes, but tonight she had to find the underlying cause of Stone’s mysterious habits. Creeping out of the pile and making sure Skipp would not wake up, Vinnie would look around for a singular rooftop that Skipp had mentioned he would always go to. And soon enough she would find the slim male up high, and a displeased Vinnie would mumble slurs to herself before making her way up to the top hastily.

Stone felt her presence from a mile away, it was not hard to distinguish Vinnie’s movements from Skipp’s, or even his own. He had known the two Scraps too well, and knowing how less lenient Vinnie was with his actions would know exactly why she was even bothered to look for him. He would take a quick, deep, puff from his cigar before letting out a loud breath, not even turning to face his friend.

“I knew you had eventually come to question me Vinnie, I may not like Skipp, but I respect his willingness to not question my habits. Why must you persist so much about this?”

And of course, without a second of silence Vinnie would go on a long, annoying tangent.

“You know why I am here, Stone. I was lucky enough not to wake Skipp because unlike him I am genuinely getting annoyed with your behavior! You never want to participate in my schemes, and it is hard enough for me and Skipp to do them on our own! You always make some bullshit excuse about not wanting to get in the way, when you swore, you would help us if we took you in! The only reason you are not by yourself yet is because Skipp believes that one day you will come to your senses and contribute to the survival of us and yourself! And to top it all off, you always ask for one of us to find an umbrella for you, in the daylight! I get that rich people use umbrellas in the daytime for shitty aesthetic, but you are the last person I would expect to waltz around with an umbrella!”

Stone, with a heavy, annoyed sigh would lay down his cigar to speak with a sharp tone in his voice.

“Vinnie. You are meddling in things you do not understand, and one of these days it could cost you a great deal, and even put Skipp at risk too. You ask too many questions, and you are looking for answers that just are not meant to be answered.”

Vinnie absolutely hated Stone when he talked like a smug rich person, and she scoffed and rolled her eyes.

“Quit talking like that! God you are more annoying than a bird constantly chirping its head off in the morning, why are you like this??”

Stone replied briefly.

“Because I, unbelievably, care about you and Skipp. I am only doing this to protect you, Vinnie.”

Vinnie was visibly pissed.

“Protect me and Skipp from what, exactly? We are perfectly capable of taking care of ourselves, what are you so afra-!”

Stone would stand up as Vinnie spoke, not seeming to stop talking anytime soon until Stone crept his pointer finger against her lips seductively.

“Them.”

Vinnie could not even reply to Stone’s statement, he sounded so cold, and bitter when he spoke that single word. She was more confused than she was before, and she did not care what was at risk. She would figure out what was going on, even if it killed her.

Chapter Text

Stone awoke in the dead of night by a loud bang from the downstairs kitchen, it was normal to be awoken by noises, but this one was different than before. His family was out once again, and Stone would have to deal with another night of no sleep.

It was no secret that Stone and his family were rich snobs, and Stone did not care much about his birth-given wealth like his family had. Though they always did their duties at night, including Stone when he was forced to go out by his father and retrieve meals for the lot of them. His older sister, Arville, would sometimes accompany Stone if he were caught doing a poor job, which he would get scolded for the evening after.

He hated his life, everything to do with it, he wishes he were born into a different family, a normal family. One that did not rely on consuming the blood of others to survive...

Him and his family came from a long lineage of ancient vampires, dawning back many centuries ago, the bloodline still as strong as ever. With Arville and Stone’s birth, their parents knew they would continue their lineage and keep the line of vampires strong. Or at least, they thought their son would. Arville was fully dedicated to her duties and her life, obeying every command her parents gave her. She was professionally trained and knew everything it took to be a perfect vampire.

Stone on the other hand could not stand it, he could not stand having to feel and taste the moist, wet, metallic crimson liquid he stole from innocent villagers on his still growing fangs. The sound made when draining the very life force made Stone sick, and he was usually caught regurgitating some of what he stole the night before. His parents were displeased every time they trained their son, making him go out with Arville every weekend to steal an innocent villager that nobody would care about.

On weekends, a meal was brought home. Stone could not stand listening to the wails and pleads of the innocent victim. For they had to knock them unconscious before bringing them inside. If they were to capture and consume villagers in the dark of the night, while people were still occasionally out, it could cause trouble for the lineage.

Though tonight, Stone would dread more than the others. His family took turns taking the first bite, and Stone was never the first because his family saw him as weak, and too docile as a vampire. To them, being a vampire meant to be ruthless, unforgiving, always hungry, craving more. Stone, while strong, always felt too weak to his stomach to plunge his fangs into the soft skin of his family’s latest victim. But he had to, or else he would perish.

Tonight, for the first time, Stone’s family had ordered him to take the first bite and take the life of the victim.

“Stone! Mother and father are waiting, and this bitch will not stop crying! Would you please hurry up getting ready? Not like what you are wearing will stay clean for long anyhow!”

Arville screeched, her voice sounding annoyed and bitter.

“Arville!” Her mother shouted. “You are to NOT swear, for it is shameful to our family!”

Arville could only bow her head and nod, responding with a simple, yet meaningful, “Yes, Ma’am.”

Her husband would stay quiet, though the look on his face showed obvious signs of similar annoyance and impatience.

The victim, on the other hand, was wailing more than ever before. A young female, in her early twenties, she was far too young to die, and had so much ahead of her. Stone had no idea what he would be taking away from her until it was too late, finally accompanying his family down into the living quarters. Bowing as to apologize, looking up at his family.

“Mother, father, sister, I deeply apologize.”

While he despised his family, he still was forced to give them the utmost respect even if he was not properly given it back. His mother stood before him, looking down at her son before putting a cold hand against his raven locks of hair.

“You are forgiven, my son. For months now you have been tarnishing this family’s legacy, everything it stands for lies on us, you, and your sister’s shoulders. Now it is time for you to put your unwillingness aside, and finally ascend like you already should have done.”

Stone willingly stayed quiet, staring at the cold floor beneath him as sobs could be heard from the victim above, who would soon be silenced by Arville’s hand.

“So tonight, my son, you will be the one to take the first bite. You were always the last to consume, and I have heard nights of you regurgitating your meals as if you did not want any of what we work so hard to give to you and your sister. So, she kindly brought back a perfect subject for you to make us proud of. Look, Stone. Look at who you will be feeding us tonight.”

Stone’s head was forcefully lifted upwards by his mother’s strong hold on his now tarnished locks of black hair. His eyes widened; it could not be. He did not want to believe that they had brought home such a bright young female for him to kill on purpose, just for their amusement and not their hunger alone.

He objected, wrongfully so. And it had soon cost him.

“M-Mother.” Stone would say quietly, his eyes somehow not being able to part with the gaze of the young lady looking back at him. “Why. Why such a young woman? Why not one of older age, why must you punish me in such a way with one who still has so much to contribute to life?”

Stone’s mother smacked him across the face hastily, scrambling him to his trembling feet and growling.

“You will NOT question I or your father’s choices, you understand!? For so long we have put up with your unwillingness to be a part of this family, and now you will prove to your father and I that you are worthy of being in this lineage! Young lady or not, she has barely contributed to anything! There are many others who will do the exact same thing she would have done, so there is not a difference.”

Stone winced, he was told to never wince when getting backhanded, but it was always inevitable. Arville, however, knew not to wince; after so many slaps, she grew used to the stinging feeling. But Stone would never get used to it.

“Please, please!” The young woman cried, Arville eventually pulling her hand back as it was wet from the constant heavy breathing and cries against it. “Don’t do this, please!” She could barely produce better pleads, she was too stricken with fear and desperation to say anything else.

“ENOUGH OF THIS! Arville, you know what to do!” Her father spoke up, tired of Stone’s never-ending incompetence.

Arville, understanding her father’s commands, would walk up to Stone, and with his mother’s aid would drag the unwilling boy up to the sobbing victim’s neck, his fangs dangerously close to the soft warm skin that you swore you could feel against your face. Stone’s eyes welled, there was nothing he could do. He could not even beg to his family, like the poor woman could not plead with any other words other than “Please, do not do this please! Leave your son be, please!”

The victim was struck across her head by Stone’s father.

“You, a measly victim does NOT get to decide what is best for our son! He WILL fulfill his purpose and pursue what he was meant to become!”

Suddenly Stone felt his mouth forced open, his hot breath now emitting strongly from his nose and mouth alike. His fangs now pressed against the young woman’s neck, and he could not help but cry. There was only one way to end this, by ending her.

With one, swift, unforgiving chomp, Stone had inevitably forced his fangs deep into the girl’s neck, who would emit a loud wail of pain as she would thrash in her restraints. Stone was forcefully taking someone’s life, against his will, and he would forever have to live with it. He would decide to just get it over with. Soft sounds of crimson blood being drained from her neck filled the room, and Stone’s stomach. He felt sick, the atmosphere made him utterly ill. He could not throw up, not now, his family grinning in glee as their son, while forced, was finally doing what they had always wanted him to do.

Minutes felt like hours to Stone, and his family would not be letting go until they had felt Stone had done enough to please them. All he could do was sickly continue to consume the woman’s crimson life force to contribute to his own, her wails slowly dying down, as she could feel her pulse die out slowly. Eventually, the woman was dead.

Once her breathing stopped, Arville and her mother let Stone go, who would waste no time in pulling back and dragging his weakened body against the wall. A vampire should have felt strong after feasting, but all Stone felt was weak. Arville had then approached her cowardly younger brother and grinned.

“Was it really that hard, dear brother? You need to lighten up, you are the only vampire I have ever met that does not like taking the lives of others, and as a vampire that is what must be done to survive.”

Arville was soon cut off by her father, who had stood in front of her.

“Go feast with your mother, Arville. I shall join shortly after I have consoled your brother.”

Arville would only bow and walk away, leaving Stone to deal with their father alone.

“While you were very hesitant, you managed to get the job done, son. This foolish behavior must end if you are going to continue the lineage, understood?”

Stone, still grief-stricken, nodded quickly in fear of being struck once more.

“Yes, father.”

His father had walked away to join the others and had not cared if Stone had joined them for seconds or not.

He had just taken an innocent’s life for the first time, and he would have to live with it forever. That night made Stone fully aware that this was not who he wanted to be.

And he knew without delay that it meant abandoning his family to start a new life, not knowing that soon enough they would soon come crawling back to bring their son back to his “rightful” home.

Chapter Text

The morning after Stone and Vinnie’s discussion left the two quite bitter towards one another. Stone, once again slumped in the darkest pits of the alleyway, drank his life away with a bottle of liquor. Skipp was unaware of last night’s scuffle, and would not get too involved, rather he would simply walk up to Stone with a smile.

“Good morning, Stone! Going to be back here all day again, huh? You know, you really do need to get some sunlight one of these days! And do not worry, despite Vinnie’s annoyance I promise you I will find you an umbrella!”

Stone would stare up at the boy, he respected him quite a bit. He knew where to draw the line and did not meddle in his life as much as Vinnie had been.

“Thanks, I guess...”

Skipp chimed in once more.

“Are you absolutely sure you don’t want to come along with us, Stone?”

Stone shook his head, taking another swig. Soon enough, Vinnie would approach the two boys.

“C’mon Skipp, he is never going to help us anyway. Let us just get my latest scheme finished, eh? I got a good one that I am sure will work!”

Skipp would smile.

“Of course, Vinnie! We will be back later, Stone!”

The two went off, leaving Stone to himself. As the two got ready for their plot, Skipp whispered a question to Vinnie.

“Hey, Vinnie? Why are you and Stone being so bitter today? I know you are usually like that towards him but today is simply different.”

“Skipp, you do not understand. There is more to Stone than you think, and I am starting to ponder if we even should have taken him in.”

Skipp replied with utter disgust.

“Vinnie, how could you say that about Stone? You have no idea what he has been through, or how he even got to where he was when we found him! You are meddling in his business, and I know you care but you are going about it the wrong way.”

Vinnie, visibly annoyed, decided to set her annoyance aside as she had no reason to be upset with Skipp.

“Maybe I am Skipp, you are right, but he is keeping secrets from me, from you! I just wish he would stop being so self-centered.”

Vinnie would sigh before continuing.

“Let’s just get this heist over with, okay buddy?”

Skipp would decide to let it be for now, giving a nod. The two would then go about their scheme, which would be successful.

As evening fell the two Scraps would return to their slums after their successful heist, Stone still going at that same bottle of liquor. Skipp, overjoyed, ran to Stone with something in his hand.

“Stone, Stone! Look what I found, I finally found one! Well, I snagged it but still!”

Stone peered over, noticing what Skipp had brought him. It was an umbrella, now Stone could finally go out in the sunlight, and it would mean Vinnie would quit her constant bickering. He stood up and looked at Skipp, surprisingly emitting a smile as he took the umbrella carefully and opened it, lifting it over his head before placing an arm on Skipp’s shoulder.

“Thank you, Skipp. I would like you to accompany me to the rooftops tonight. I would like to talk to you.”

Skipp could not be happier, for he was never invited to join Stone out on his nightly endeavors. Nor was Vinnie, for that matter.

“I’d love to, Stone!”

“Then it is settled. Do not be late.”

And Skipp was not even a second late when nightfall came. Vinnie urged Skipp to reconsider but he promised Vinnie everything would be okay. She would give him a hug and send him on his way to Stone. Climbing his way up to the rooftop as the moon once again glowed as bright as his smile, he would find Stone and sit down next to him without a second thought.

“Hey, Stone! I made it just like you said, not a second late!”

Stone did not reply to his welcoming words, instead he would blow them off and replace them with his own.

“Skipp, I know you have been questioning things like Vinnie has. I know you have respected my boundaries and my wishes, but I know deep down you have been so curious about my life prior to this one.”

Skipp could only listen to Stone, and his words were right. Deep down he was just as curious as Vinnie, but his kindhearted nature got the better of him.

“Yes. You are right, Stone. I cannot lie, I have always wanted to know more about you, but I wanted to give you so much more time to open to us. I am sorry Vinnie has been so forceful towards you about these things, I just did not want to get into it since it was not my business...”

As Skipp spoke through honest words, Vinnie, unbeknownst to them would be listening in on their conversation.

“I... I want to tell you Skipp, I really do. I want to tell Vinnie too but with her being so persistent in being nosy has made me more hesitant.”

Skipp gave Stone a soft hug, a hug different from the cold ones his family would give when he gave in to their ravenous demands.

“It is okay Stone; you take all the time you need. I can only imagine what you have been through, and if you do not want to tell us then that is okay. Just know you will always be my best friend.”

Those words hit Stone like a truck, these affections he had been given after being through hell and back for so long without the boy knowing his dark past made him feel emotions he could not describe. He felt a deep bond with Skipp, same with Vinnie but Skipp... He was different from the rest, he wished his family were more like Skipp, but he knew that had never happened. He would accept Skipp’s embrace, leaning against him, though he had wished he did not. His vampiric urges surfaced, and his fangs emerged. Being so close to Skipp meant being close to a viable food source, and Stone vowed to control his urges around his friends.

That is why he always went out at night. His urges never truly vanished, he had to do it in the dark. He had to feast. It was the only way, he was stuck with this dreaded curse, feeling that disgusting copper tasting liquid coating his throat weekly. All the lives he has taken since then, the lives he never wanted to take but had to against his will. If he ever did that to Vinnie or Skipp, he could not ever live with himself. The only two people who Stone had respect for, and he always knew when to distance himself.

His fangs, oh how close they were to Skipp’s delicate neck. He shivered, his mind racing as his eyes turned crimson red.

Vinnie was watching everything, every single move made by Stone and Skipp.

Stone knew what would happen if this hug continued onward, he knew what he would have to live with if his urges got the best of him. He quickly parted from Skipp’s arms, his eyes still red and causing him to turn away. He could not show Skipp his true looks, he would hate him forever and Vinnie would undoubtably keep Skipp away from him.

Skipp could only look at Stone with worry, wondering why the hug had ended so prematurely.

“Stone? Is something wrong?”

The boy’s soft words flowed through Stone’s mind as it raced, his breathing heavy as he held onto his hair with a tight grip. He had to leave, he had to go somewhere until his urges passed.

“I... I must go Skipp; I will be back in the morning. Just go back to Vinnie, I promise I will be fine.”

Skipp’s eyes began to fill up with tears.

“Stone, wait, you can talk to me, please!”

Stone would not wait another second to get away, but not for the reasons Skipp had thought of. Jumping off the roof swiftly he had run off into the woods.

Skipp would softly cry; he was worried for Stone. He wanted to go after him, but he just could not.

Vinnie went back to the slums before Skipp had returned with tears in his eyes. She pretended to not know what had happened between the two prior to Stone storming off in a hurry. She only comforted Skipp and held him close as they would eventually fall asleep.

Skipp swore he could’ve seen Stone with reddened eyes.

As Stone ran off, he would eventually stop to catch his breath, his urges still strong. He could not go back to the slums; he knew the risk that would pose to his friends.

He had lay against a tree and sighed, rubbing his forehead. He would hear a distinct giggle in the background. An oh-so familiar laugh he wished he would never hear again.

Stone was not alone, and he knew exactly who was with him again after all these years.

Arville.

Chapter Text

Stone had not stuck out like a sore thumb, though you could have sworn he was vastly different from the rest; including his family. Everything they said about him was true, he was incredibly weak for a vampire, and he would not make them as proud as Arville had been. He knew he was destined to do more than what his parents sought out for him. Stone did not really know what he wanted in life, but he knew he did not want to live under his parents’ authority. He did want one thing; friends. Mother always told him he would not ever be able to have friends, for she and Stone knew there was a possibility that he could let his urges take control by accident, and nobody would ever want to be around him again. Father said friends were just a means to an end for the family, a free blood bag for the taking, and would never truly stick around for long. Arville had the most interesting reason; she stated that she too wanted friends when she was Stone’s age, but disaster struck and she ended up accidentally killing the only person who’d ever want to be around her besides her own family.

Arville told Stone that because of that, vampires were destined for nothing more but to spread their curse to those who were deemed fit. But the utmost reason was for survival, a vampire could not survive with friends around. For it would only jeopardize the bigger picture, but Stone knew that there was a way to control those urges. Weeks before he left to be on his own, he read everything he could about his past lineage and how they dealt with their vampirism. It was meditation, being alone for a while to calm down your urges temporarily. But why at night? Because it was quiet, when vampires were most active, and when their urges had the highest chance of emerging. Stone took what he read to heart, and on some nights without anyone knowing he would sit on the rooftop of his home to meditate. At first, he had trouble with getting it right, but eventually after around a few months of practice he was able to control his urges at will, but it would not always be perfect. Stone knew there was always a chance of his urges emerging, and as back-up he had run off somewhere where he would not hurt anybody and would instead feast on various forest critters to subdue his hunger.

After so long of dealing with his family he finally decided to leave to be on his own, a week after his intense training he thought out the perfect plan. After escaping he would finally be able to live out in the real world, despite having to hide in the sunlight until evening fell. He could finally make friends, and hopefully find his place in the world.

Tonight was perfect.

It was not his turn to feast, it was Father’s. Father was always the strictest, right behind his mother. Arville on the other hand always made sure to keep Stone in check.

Stone would soon be called downstairs for their weekly feast, by Arville as always.

“Stone, could you please stop taking centuries to get ready? It is Father’s turn, and you know how impatient he can get!”

Stone decided it was best to wait until after feasting to enact his plan, making sure he had everything he needed to escape. He would rush downstairs as usual; he was so used to it at this point that the wails and cries of the victim could barely make him feel guilty. He would never, however, be used to Mother’s backhanding.

“Son, you have finally made it! You are forgiven once again for being a minute late, I understand how you are somehow still not used to this which is why I am having you take the first bite next weekend. Understood?”

Phew, it was definitely a good thing Stone was leaving tonight.

“Yes, mother. Of course.”

The process began without a second thought, everything was a blur to Stone. He just wanted to get it over with. Minutes once again, feeling like hours even though he was not the initiator. The unpleasant feeling he felt after every feeding would always make Stone feel nauseous, but he had no time to even think about throwing up. For once he had to keep it down so he could escape, which he was able to do through his constant meditation.

He had everything he needed, and he would be sure of it. He would check again, then again, then again to be sure. He had it all, and luckily enough for him he had a window in his room that was not too far from the ground. Not like that would be an issue for him, however, he decided to toss his belongings out first. He looked back one last time, at the bedroom he grew up in. He hated the memories he made but he still had to look back, looking upon his bed he would see the book he had been studying for months. He knew it was in his best interest to take it with him, and he did. He would not miss this life; he should not have looked back.

He shook his head and sighed, jumping out the window and swiftly landing on his feet. This was it; he was finally free. He could make his own choices, not have to follow some stupid lineage, he could finally be himself; Stone.

He picked up his stuff and decided it was best to take refuge in an alleyway, why not the forest? Because he knew that is exactly where his family would look first if they had found their son missing.

Stone had seen something in the distance, a fire. Not a big fire that would usually be deadly, but it was a campfire. He also heard singing, very subtle singing. It seemed to have been emitted by a male voice, and Stone, remembering his meditation took a deep breath and made his way through that alleyway.

As the boy sang his heart out, he would hear something out near the entrance to the alleyway. The singing would soon stop, and his friend, a brunette female would ponder why the ginger had stopped.

“What is it, Skipp? Why would you stop singing?” The soft female voice asked.

“Sorry Vinnie, it just feels like we are being watched... I do not want to be harassed again...”

The girl named Vinnie would stand up, assisting Skipp in getting to his feet as well.

“Do not worry Skipp, just do not show fear. Hey, pussy! Either show yourself or leave!”

Stone heard not one, but two voices. One being of the male that was singing, the other being a female. He knew of his abilities, but he swore to keep them under control. He decided to play it cool, stepping out in front of the two figures and placing his bags down, holding his hands up to prove he was not a threat, he did not want to be one.

Skipp, realizing it was just a normal human would sigh in relief and look towards Vinnie.

“Vinnie, look! They do not usually hold their hands up unless they are asking for mercy, we should hear him out!”

Vinnie would be visibly skeptical but would decide to let Stone say his peace.

“Alright sure, whatever, I guess. Go ahead and speak your peace, briefly.”

Stone was surprised he was shown this much amount of mercy, he would have thought himself to be dead by now.

“Thank you, my name is Stone. I ran away from home because of a moral and emotional struggle. They have never had my best interests at heart, and I am seeking a new life, one where I hopefully find friends along the way. I apologize if I scared either of you, I have never interacted with anyone other than my family since birth. I understand if you do not want to-”

Stone was caught off due to a tight embrace by the other male, he was overjoyed to have another friend to add to the team. Vinnie, on the other hand, did not seem so willing to let Stone in.

“Skipp! You have no idea what... Stone, is capable of!”

Skipp, ignoring all signs of danger did not bother to fear someone so seemingly innocent as Stone.

“And? Look at him, he could be an important asset to our group! Three pairs of hands are better than two, right? Come on Vinnie, pleaseeee?”

As Skipp rambled on Stone began to feel strange new emotions, emotions that for once he actually wanted to experience more of. This affection was unlike the fake admiration his family had given him, and he knew at once that this was his calling.

Vinnie approached Stone, Skipp needing to let go from the hug so the two could talk.

“Stone, is it? I hate disappointing Skipp, he is like a brother to me. If you prove yourself to be a worthy asset, then I would be happy to accept you onto our little team. What do you say?”

Stone was overwhelmed with a sense of joy and would have a tough time expressing it. He would simply give a soft smile and nod.

“Then it’s settled,” Vinnie said. “We will keep your belongings safe, go ahead and get some sleep for the night. We will begin your initiation tomorrow.”

Chapter Text

Arville.

“Why... If it is not my dear little brother Stone... Did you really think you could hide from me, mother, and father for long? I will admit, the amount of time it took for me to find you has left me impressed. Ten years, Stone...”

Stone could barely even bother to look up at his older sister that he despised, even if her treatment towards him was not as awful as the way his parents treated him.

Stone knew this would eventually happen; he knew at least one of his family members would come looking for him. He knew his parents could not be bothered so he was not shocked when it was his older sister that would eventually find him, he just didn’t know that it would happen this late.

Stone’s eyes glowed, oh how he despised Arville. He could barely put his anger into words.

“Aww, too upset to speak little brother? I was always curious on how you would go about trying to live as a normal vampire, knowing deep down it was never in your nature to make friends... I told you many times that making friends will only lead to disaster, you will soon give into your natural urges and do what you should have done from the start. Why do you try so hard to resist who you are meant to be?”

Stone stood up; he was not going to let his family put him down anymore. He was a grown man now, ten years of unaltered peace with friends whom he had come to call his family. He would stand in front of Arville, a hard, reddened glare in his eyes. He had not had a lot of time since he ran from Skipp to control his urges, so they would be as primal as ever.

“Because Arville, you are wrong. This is not who I am meant to be, nor is it WHO I want to be. These ten years of peace have shown me that the friends I have met are now whom I consider family. Much better family at that, I will not let my lineage determine whom I am meant to be, for I will be the one to decide that.”

Arville only laughed, if mother or father were present Stone knew they would do the same thing.

“Oh Stone, quit being so naive! These so called “friends” you have made are just a distraction to you! You can’t genuinely consider them friends, let alone your family, can you!?”

“It is okay Stone; you take all the time you need. I can only imagine what you have been through, and if you do not want to tell us then that is okay. Just know you will always be my best friend.”

Skipp’s words ran through Stone’s head rapidly as Arville spoke, and he knew everything she was saying was wrong.

“No, you are wrong Arville. They are my family; they ARE my friends. I knew that the very day I met them. They can be annoying, intrusive, but at least they do not abuse me. I would rather be stuck with those not of my own blood than those WITH my blood.”

Arville grabbed ahold of Stone by the throat, forcing him against a nearby tree and baring her teeth.

“These disgusting blood bags have ruined you, Stone! Do you really think you can keep these people safe!? Ten years or not you are still one of us, you are still a vampire!”

The hatred Stone saw in Arville’s eyes only fueled his own rage. He had even more reason to fight for Skipp and Vinnie now.

He would gasp for air as his sister’s hands clutched firmly around his neck, and he knew there was only one way out of it. He had to let his instincts in. He had to fight for himself, Vinnie, and especially Skipp.

He would snarl and viciously bite down Arville’s arm, as much as he hated this feeling, he knew it was the only way. His urges had completely engulfed him as he fought for survival, and it left Arville to wail in pain.

Stone needed more strength than this if he wanted to escape his sister, he knew she had always been stronger than him. The sheer blood of animals alone would not ever be enough to fuel his strength, he had to consume some of his sister's own blood.

As Arville screeched and desperately attempted to pull away, Stone’s fangs surprisingly were lodged in her arm well, and it would not be wise for her to force his fangs out.

Stone, against his will, began to suck the crimson life force from his own sister’s arm. The feeling of it coursing through his throat. At that moment he did not feel ill, or like he wanted to vomit. At this moment, he enjoyed overpowering his older sister, despite him vowing to never hurt a single soul again. But this soul, however, was already tarnished enough by his family. He knew Arville would not want to give up her life to live like Stone had been. It, to her, was weak and pathetic. But Stone knew he was stronger than Arville because of one thing.

He did not let destiny shape who he wanted to be.

Stone would soon have enough of his sister’s blood, his fangs rising out of Arville’s now crimson soaked arm, that crimson being her own. She was utterly shocked by Stone’s actions and had no idea that the reason he was doing this was all for the sake of his friends. She would hold onto her bleeding arm, and to Stone’s disgust he watched her lick her own blood without remorse for nutrition.

The gaze the siblings had towards one another was unlike a typical gaze. A gaze of pure hatred, and nothing else. With a heavy breath, Arville spoke.

“You cannot hide from your true nature, Stone! Tonight, has proved that to be very much so! I wish I could admit that I am impressed with your actions, but to do them towards me, your own sister! When you should be doing it to your measly blood bags you excuse as friends...”

Stone had felt so much stronger than he had before, he knew he would need this strength if he wanted to keep himself and his friends alive. He did not speak, instead he wiped the blood of Arville off his chin and consumed what was left on his fangs.

Arville could only watch as her brother became what he swore to control, laughing aloud as she had noticed that it would soon be dawn.

“Little brother of mine, you cannot keep this up forever. Soon you and your friends will fall to your destiny, whether you like it or not. They will find out for themselves and when they do, you will realize all that time you spent with them was purely a waste. Until we meet again, Stone.”

And with that, Arville was gone. All that was left was Stone and his thoughts, he had to get back to his friends, no... His family.

He knew what Arville said was true, they would eventually find out. He would not realize what that would cost him until it was too late.

Sporting his umbrella and looming it over him as the sun crept its way across the town, Stone was eventually able to calm himself and return home. With new strength, and new purpose.

Chapter Text

It had been a month since Stone’s initiation was successful. Despite the sunlight he was surprisingly able to avoid it as swiftly as he could. And within that month he was also able to get to know Skipp and Vinnie a bit better, and he truly did feel like he fit in despite only being with them for a month.

Vinnie.

Vinnie was remarkably interesting to say the least, not like your typical girl. She was incredibly rambunctious and eager to get the job done. She was also incredibly loyal towards Skipp, and now Stone. It had taken her a while to get used to having a third member, but she knew deep down that he was meant to join them.

But eventually Stone would notice her grow irritable. Year after year she grew more tired of Stone’s inability to assist in their survival, but Skipp was always the moral compass to calm her down, and to reassure her that their decision to bring Stone in was not in vain.

Vinnie still cared for Stone a whole lot; he was family to her just as much as Skipp was. Stone would feel the exact same towards Vinnie, as well. With time he had learned to tolerate her over the top behavior and had some come to enjoy it after being sought of happiness.

Skipp.

Oh, Skipp. Skipp was unlike anyone he had ever met, which was scarce. If angels truly were sent down to earth to watch over the living, Skipp was truly his guardian angel. He did not think vampires deserved such a thing, but it had to have meant something, and it did. Do not get him wrong, Stone loved both Vinnie and Skipp as equals, and soon he would see them as family. But Skipp had played such a significant role in Stone’s newly found life, more than he could have ever dreamed of. And oh, was Skipp clingy towards Stone. Clingier than the protons and electrons found in a singular atom, and Stone had learned to accept it. And soon, he would realize he did not want to live without it. He hated to show his true emotions, he hated to smile, but somehow Skipp was able to show his true colors as much as Stone hoped he would not. He could talk about Skipp for hours, that is all that is on his mind.

Skipp.

Skipp.

Vinnie.

Skipp.

Skipp.

Vinnie.

He could never admit his true feelings towards the ginger boy, as much as he wanted to admit the fact that he loved him.

He loved Skipp more than friends, more than family. It was much more than that to Stone. He just did not have the same connection with Vinnie as he did Skipp.

Oh, if his family found out he ever sought for a boy, they would scold him until the end of his very days. But Stone was free, he did not have to be scared anymore. He had friends who treated him as if he were there from the start and he could not be more grateful.

Tonight, Vinnie had asked him if he wanted to join her and Skipp on the rooftops to relax, instead of just going to bed. Stone gladly accepted this offer, as it meant spending more time with her. With Skipp.

The three friends sat on the rooftop, Skipp in the middle, Stone to the right and Vinnie to the left. Stone had a drink in hand, Vinnie had a cigar, and Skipp had the mandolin he would play every night. The mandolin that would never fail to aid Stone into a deep slumber. He remembered the constant fighting he would hear from his family downstairs, mostly about Stone and how he was such a failure to the vampire lineage. Now he was free of it, and as the three sat together Skipp began strumming the strings of his mandolin with the utmost care. The cool, gentle breeze running through their hair and calming them.

As Skipp hummed and strummed his heart out, Vinnie spoke up.

“Hey, Stone... I just want you to know that I really do care about you, even though I have been nasty towards you lately... I am just not used to having another member, you know? But man, it feels like you have always belonged with us Stone, Skipp was right when he said three pairs of hands would be better than two. You are doing what you can to help, though I really would appreciate it if you would be a bit more open with us. Skipp is always worried about you, and genuinely wants to know you better. So, if you can, could you not keep secrets from us, Stone?”

If only Stone took Vinnie’s last sentence to heart.

All he could do was falsely nod.

“Sure thing, Vinnie.”

Skipp, while playing, heard the short conversation between Vinnie and Stone. He was overjoyed that Stone would finally be more open about himself, with time given to him of course.

“I am so glad to hear that, Stone! I know it must take a lot of courage to want to talk to us of all people... Not being able to console with your family must have been why you have been so distant to talk with us, huh?”

Stone could only nod, he never could interrupt Skipp. His voice was too soft and tender to interrupt, he had always waited for him to finish.

“You will always be a part of our group, whether you doubt that or not. No matter what happens, you will always have us to have your backs. And we know you will have ours if the time comes as well.”

Skipp’s words could not be truer, unlike his biological family, with him and Vinnie, Stone felt like he had belonged to something. Something better, something worth fighting for. He did not care about his origins, about his vampirism, he would not let that get in the way of his new life. He would not trade it for anything, and if he were to die, he would want to die saving the only people who have ever seen him as a person. The only two people whom he could ever trust.

The only two people he could ever love.

The talking stopped, the trio seemed to have had a silent agreement to simply enjoy the night and their company with one another. They were all content with that, especially Stone.

As Skipp once again continued to strum the soft melodies that would protrude from his mandolin, Stone could not help but rest his tired body right up against Skipp’s own shoulder. The ginger felt it and turned to see a tired Stone who would slowly be drifting off into a peaceful sleep that he had always wanted to have.

Skipp would have placed a singular, soft kiss right up against Stone’s forehead, and Stone had felt it. Oh, how he had wanted Skipp to do that forever.

Vinnie looked at the two and smiled, placing an arm on Skipp’s shoulder as the ginger boy smiled contently.

If only moments like these would last forever.

Chapter Text

Stone would eventually make it back to the streets that would soon be busy with rich folk. He could only imagine the looks on Vinnie and Skipp’s faces when they had found him alive and well, and not dead like Skipp had feared.  

The moment Stone had entered the alleyway Skipp rushed to hug him firmly, and Stone with his free hand would wrap his arm around Skipp’s waist. Vinnie would smile, placing an arm on his shoulder and sighing in relief.  

“Glad to have you back Stone, Skipp would not stop rambling on about how he thought you were dead. But trust me, he knows you are stronger than you look. Though, we did hear faint wailing before calling it a night. Did something happen?”  

Stone's expression turned cold; he was lucky the two did not decide to venture out to look for him. Vinnie kept Skipp in check this time around.   

“Yeah, do not worry about it Vinnie. It was a wild animal or something like that. Could I get some rest, please?”  

Vinnie nodded, aiding Stone in laying down in the shade, closing the umbrella and setting it to his side.  

“Of course you can, me and Skipp are going to lay low too as well. Do you mind if Skipp and I head to the library? Do not ask why, it was his idea.”  

Skipp nodded excitedly; unlike Vinnie he enjoyed reading even if it was only on occasion.  

“Sure,” Stone replied. “Knock yourselves out, I’ll be fine here, promise.”  

And with that, and a quick necessary hug given to Stone by Skipp, the two would find their way to the local library that had been open for some time. Neither have been in it of course, and since the town was not a fan of alleyway dwellers, they made a deal with the owner that they would only visit just this once.   

Entering the doors the two were immediately greeted by the sight and smell of books, hand placed carefully and alphabetically. Vinnie gagged, she absolutely dreaded anything that involved reading. But she knew she had to be here.  

“C’mon Skipp, let us make this quick. There should be a section on the history of this town somewhere.” 
 

And surprisingly Skipp knew exactly where that would be, dragging Vinnie to the back of the library and skimming through the spines of each book before gasping in glee. Taking out the book and sitting down on the floor where the two would then sit.  

The History of Ramshackle  

Early Settlement  

Ramshackle was founded in the early 1800s by a group of pioneering families seeking to create an ideal community away from the bustling cities of the East Coast. Located in a secluded valley surrounded by dense forests, the town quickly grew, thanks to the influx of wealthy families who built grand homes and established prosperous businesses.  

The Elite & The Underclass  

From its inception, Ramshackle was a divided town. The wealthy elite lived in opulent mansions along the main thoroughfare, known as Silk Street, while the poorer laborers and farmers resided in cramped, dilapidated buildings crammed into narrow alleyways, known collectively as the Labyrinth. The rich families controlled the town’s economy and politics, despising and mistreating the lower classes.  

The underclass, driven to desperation by their poverty, developed a reputation for being untrustworthy. Many turned to pickpocketing and petty theft, often targeting the wealthy residents of Silk Street. This behavior only deepened the animosity between the classes, with the rich viewing the poor as criminals and the poor seeing the rich as oppressors.  

The Blackwood Family  

Among the town’s elite, the Blackwood family was the most influential and mysterious. They built an imposing mansion on a hill overlooking Ramshackle, its dark silhouette a constant reminder of their power. The Blackwoods were reclusive, rarely mingling with even other wealthy families, and were known for their cold, distant demeanor. They funded many of the town’s public buildings, including the church, schoolhouse, library, and town hall, but their philanthropy did little to endear them to the populace, who whispered dark secrets and hidden wealth.  

The Great Disappearance  

In the winter of 1842, a severe storm struck Ramshackle. When the storm passed, the entire Blackwood family had vanished without a trace. Their mansion was left untouched, with meals still set on the dining table and fires burning in the hearth. Despite extensive searches, no clues to their fate were ever found. The disappearance deepened the divide between the rich and the poor, with each side blaming the other for the town's troubles.  

The Vampire Rumors  

In the years following the disappearance, strange occurrences began to plague Ramshackle. Livestock were found drained of blood, and eerie sights of shadowy figures roaming the forests at night became common tales. The poor, who had always been wary of the Blackwoods, began to whisper that the family had been vampires, living among them to prey on the living. The wealthy dismissed these claims as superstitious nonsense, but the fear and tension in the town grew.  

The Last of The Blackwoods  

Unbeknownst to the townsfolk, the Blackwoods were indeed vampires, part of an ancient lineage that had dwindled over centuries. The family had managed to coexist with the humans of Ramshackle, using their wealth and influence to maintain secrecy. When they vanished in 1842, it was not due to a storm, but a pact to retreat into hiding to escape vampire hunters who had traced their lineage to Ramshackle. However, not all Blackwoods disappeared; a single family from their lineage were rumored to have remained, hidden, and watching over the town.  

The Scarlet Nights  

The rumors of vampires reached fever pitch during the Scarlet Nights of the late 1860s. Over several months, a series of brutal attacks left several townsfolk dead, their bodies found with strange puncture wounds on their necks, drained of blood. Panic spread, and many families, especially the poor, fled Ramshackle, fearing for their lives. The remaining wealthy families fortified their homes, hiring guards to protect them from what they believed were angry, vengeful peasants.  

Ramshackle’s Resilience  

Despite these events, Ramshackle did not collapse. The town endured, albeit with a lingering undercurrent of fear and distrust. The wealthy continued to dominate the town’s politics and economy, while the poor remained in the Labyrinth, still regarded with suspicion and disdain. The town’s eerie past became a source of macabre fascination, drawing tourists and thrill-seekers.  

Modern-Day Ramshackle  

Today, Ramshackle stands as a peculiar blend of prosperity and decay. The grand mansions of Silk Street are well-maintained, their opulence a stark contrast to the crumbling alleyways of the Labyrinth. The Blackwood mansion, still abandoned, looms over the town, a popular destination for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers. Reports of strange occurrences and sightings of pale figures moving through the woods at night persist, keeping the legend of the Blackwoods alive.  

The town has capitalized on its dark history, with businesses offering ghost tours and themed events. Yet, beneath the commercialized surface, the old social tensions remain. The wealthy residents continue to view the poor with suspicion, while the underclass, driven by necessity, still resort to pickpocketing and petty theft, fueling the cycle of distrust.  

The Legend of The Last Blackwood Family  

A legend persists in Ramshackle, whispered among the townsfolk and eagerly recounted by tour guides. It is said that a single family of the Blackwood lineage remains, living in secrecy. This vampire family, bound by an ancient pact, watches over Ramshackle from the shadows, feeding sparingly to avoid detection. According to the legend, this family harbors a deep resentment towards the town’s remaining elite, who have continued to exploit the poor. With each passing year, their power grows, and the day draws nearer when the Blackwoods will step out of the darkness to reclaim their legacy and exact vengeance on those who wronged their family. While many dismiss the legend as mere folklore, the persistent sightings of pale figures and the occasional mysterious deaths keep the townspeople on edge. Whether truth or myth, the tale of the last Blackwood family adds to the enigmatic and haunting allure of Ramshackle, ensuring that its dark history is never forgotten.  

Skipp and Vinnie were left in shock, mostly confusion. They had never known of this but only knew a little about the ghost tour promotions and random travelers that would visit yearly.  

“So Ramshackle rumors the idea of a secret ancient vampire family that has been persisting since the 1800s? This seems oddly speculative.” 
 

 
Despite their readings Vinnie would roll her eyes after Skipp spoke. 

“I know I am not one for fairy tales and all that nonsense, but what if all of this is true? I mean this book does not even have an author, so it is hard to tell if whoever wrote this was doing it to scare the town or was serious about it...”  

Skipp took Vinnie’s note into consideration and read the cover of the book again. She was right, it had no author. Only “ The History of Ramshackle.”  

Though there seemed to be space for an author’s name, it was rubbed off entirely...  

“We must get this back to Stone, he had a book with him when we met him, didn’t he? Who knows what it was about, it could really help us figure out what Stone is potentially hiding from us...”  

Vinnie nodded. “Alright, pickpocketing this bad boy will be easier than that watch I got last week. Let us make it seem like we are just normally leaving all right?”  

Skipp nodded, and they were able to hide the book swiftly before dashing out of the library.  

This book finally had all the answers, but there were many questions that lingered in the back of the Scraps’ minds.   

Chapter Text

Hello everyone!

I wanted to give you a quick update on why there many new chapters have been so lately. I've been working hard on this story and feeling really motivated.

Ramshackle has become a big part of my life. I've been brainstorming a lot, refining the plot, and diving deeper into the story. I absolutely love working with these incredibly likeable characters!

It's exciting to see people enjoying the story and it's exciting for me because I'm typing it!

So, the frequent updates are because I'm passionate about this story and eager to keep sharing it with you. Thanks for being a part of it! I do plan on making more Ramshackle fics, but not as big as this one, which has been my most passionate project yet! As for how long this story will be, it'll probably be upwards of twenty chapters, maybe a few more plus an epilogue.

Just another reminder this is only an AU! The chapter I uploaded about the history of Ramshackle is entirely non-canon, and only canon in this story!

Chapter Text

“What do you mean you still have not found him yet, Arville!? It has been almost five years since my beloved son has gone missing and I can only assume those snobby people of Ramshackle have taken my boy away and burned him at the stake!”

Arville’s mother was in pure peril, five years had passed, and she still had no idea where her beloved son had gone.

“My beloved, I assure you, our son has gone off to fulfill his purpose alone. I know that when he comes back, he will have proven us all wrong, and he will ascend like Arville has already done. Give him another five years, then maybe that will straighten him out.”

His father spoke truth, most vampires would leave their families prematurely to grow on their own and would come back when the time was right. But five years was too long and Arville's mother knew that could not have been the case.

“And what if after these five more years have passed, Stone has not yet returned?”

Their mother asked, worry and anger in her voice.

“Then we will do what those silly prophecies foretold. We will step out of the darkness for the last time and reclaim our legacy and our son. No longer will the Blackwood name be tarnished. Our son will return anew, becoming the greatest Blackwood in the family’s entire lineage beside Arville. I promise my dear, your parent’s legacy will not be tarnished, and our son will rightfully return to us.”

“He better...” Arville’s mother replied coldly. “Or Stone will have hell to pay...”

Arville spoke up.

“Mother, father. I will continue to look for Stone for the next few years. I shall go after him once these five years have passed, and once I finally find him, we will reign hell upon the streets of the town that has turned our legacy into a mere fairy tale and joke.”

Arville’s father walked up to his devoted daughter, his cold hands caressing her face.

“Arville, my daughter. You have always been I and your mother’s favorite. Whatever Stone is doing now, I am sure he will come back to his senses. For if he does not it will cause the downfall of the entire town, and him as well.”

Arville understood the utmost importance of her mission.

“Of course, father. I hope brother comes to his senses as well.”

Oh, how wrong and hopeful Stone’s family was.

So, painfully, wrong.

Chapter Text

“This is all utter nonsense guys; do you actually believe in this shit?”

Stone immediately dismissed the book he had just read, unwilling to even acknowledge it.

“But Stone, look! There seemed to be someone who wrote this, their name has been scribbled out, or rubbed off entirely! Clearly someone did not want anyone to find out who wrote this and left it in the library to draw fear in those who read it. What if it really is true, and this so-called Blackwood family is preparing to destroy the entire town of Ramshackle as we know it!?”

Stone stood up after listening to Skipp’s babbling. The umbrella lifted high up and over his head, swiftly opened.

“Then simply, we leave Ramshackle. We find somewhere else to live and will leave it at that. Who knows, this next future town will not have such silly and ridiculous myths such as vampires. We are how old now guys, and come on Vinnie do you believe this nonsense?”

Despite Vinnie's initial skepticism, she found herself almost believing in the book's contents. The rubbed-off name and the book's menacing demeanor lent an air of authenticity to its extraordinary claims, making it difficult for her to dismiss it as mere fantasy.

“In all honesty Stone, it is hard not to believe what this book says. Besides this town has had a lot of strange disappearances lately, and a bit frequently...”

Skipp chimed in.

“Yeah! Remember the old bakery owner? She went missing years ago and was replaced without a second thought and nobody bothered to question it except the poor!”

Stone was eager to shut this conversation down entirely. Skipp was doing what Stone had feared; meddling just as much as Vinnie had when he had asked them not to.

As for the missing baker? It was Stone who had taken her life by accident.

“I do not know what you two are trying to get at by doing all this, but you must stop. It is doing you both more harm than good, and I worry the more you learn the more you will be at risk. Please, just trust me just this once and leave this all be.”

Skipp frowned, for he had not meant to make Stone so displeased.

“I am sorry Stone I did not mean to make you so upset with us; we just worry for our safety... If what this book says is true, then should not we leave before it is too late?”

Stone faced Skipp and looked down at the saddened ginger boy.

“Alright, let us say what you both read is undoubtedly true. We have been known to take care of ourselves well by this point, haven’t we?”

Stone did make a good point; the trio knew how to kick ass and they did it in style. If this vampire thing were true, they would undoubtedly be able to kick vampire ass.

Vinnie and Skipp stood silent; they had nothing to reply with. This only gave more room for Stone to talk.

“I promise you two I will protect you with my life, and I will always owe my lives to you both for taking me in so willingly. Vinnie, I promise to help more with your schemes, as painfully ridiculous as they are. If I do that, will you both promise to leave this vampire nonsense behind you?”

Vinnie and Skipp looked at one another briefly before nodding and giving Stone a hug.

“Alright alright, we will cut the vampire bullshit Stoner! And you better be ready because I have the most devious idea yet!”

As Vinnie rambled off in the background Stone’s mind would race. He could not help but fear the worst; Vinnie, now Skipp knew more, and he knew deep down that they would not let it go that easily. He knew his family was coming for him, and he knew now that the safety of these two and himself were of the utmost importance. If Arville had returned, so had his mother and father.

He had to produce a plan to protect those he loved, and he knew he would have to do the worst possible thing to keep them safe.

He would soon have to return home, without Vinnie or Skipp ever knowing where he had gone.

He could only hope that once he had left, they would eventually move on and live normal lives; unlike Stone, who knew that he was never meant to live this life.

Chapter Text

He was found.

After ten whole, exact years; Stone was found. His parents had hoped that Arville would return home with him, but the male was nowhere to be seen beside her. Arville would soon have to face the wrath of her grief-stricken mother once she had found out that Stone had not left to become a better Blackwood, but to live among mortals and abandon his vampiric nature; of course, for the most part. Stone would never truly be free of his curse no matter how hard he had tried to tarnish it.

“NO! NO, IT CANNOT BE!”

She yelled, her endless screams echoing throughout the Blackwood mansion. She did not, no; she could not believe what Arville had told her.

“YOU’RE LYING, ARVILLE!”

Arville winced, she could not stand mother’s yelling; but she could not help but understand what she felt, as she too felt the same way. Despite everything Stone was her brother, always and forever.

“Mother, that is exactly what I saw.”

Arville could not feel grief-stricken, or else she would be called weak. Only mother and father could cry.

“Stone has been living a new “life” among mortals all this time. I did not want to believe that, but I am afraid it is very much so.”

Her father was only listening, he could hear the wails in her voice. How much Stone’s betrayal had affected her. He had to be punished for what he had done, for lying and abandoning his family. He walked into the living quarters and spoke with a voice you swore you could hear for miles.

“Stone has tarnished the Blackwood legacy long enough, running off to live with disgusting mortals, whom he considers his new family!?”

Arville spoke.

“Father, mother. How are we going to get him back?”

And oh, did Stone’s parents have the most perfect plan.

Mother spoke.

“Arville, you shall find Stone once more and bring him back by force. These friends of his will soon notice his disappearance and will come looking for him. Once they find him with us, we kill them right in front of Stone’s very own eyes to teach him a lesson.”

Arville stood there, caught between her loyalty to her family and her conflicting emotions for her brother. She hesitated before speaking, her voice barely above a whisper, "But... do we really have to resort to such extreme measures, Mother? Can't we try to talk to him first? Maybe there's a way to reason with him, to make him understand without resorting to violence."

Her mother's eyes blazed with fury, the fire of a thousand unspoken words burning in their depths. "Talk to him? Reason with him?" she spat out, her voice dripping with venom. "He abandoned us, Arville! He left without a word, without a thought for the pain he would cause. Do you think words will bring him back? No. Action is what is needed. He needs to learn the consequences of his actions, the gravity of his betrayal."

Arville felt torn, her heart heavy with the weight of her family's expectations. She loved Stone, despite everything, and the thought of causing him harm tore into her soul. But she also understood the pain her parents felt, the sense of betrayal that gnawed in their hearts.

"Mother, Father," she began, her voice trembling with emotion, "I understand your anger, your need for justice. But... can't we at least try to reach out to him first? Give him a chance to explain, to make amends?"

Her father remained silent; his gaze fixed on the floor as if lost in thought. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, he spoke in a voice heavy with resignation, "We will give him one chance, Arville. One chance to come back willingly, to face the consequences of his actions. But if he refuses... then we will do what must be done."

Arville nodded, a sense of determination settling over her. She would find Stone, she would talk to him, and she would make him understand. She owed him that much, as his sister, as his family. And, just perhaps, there was still hope for their broken family to heal.

But she knew that was too good to be true.

Chapter Text

Hey everyone,

I hope you're all doing well. I wanted to let you know that I'll be taking a short break for personal reasons. Because of this, the next chapter of "Blood-Filled Stone" will be posted in two weeks instead of the usual one week.

Thanks for your understanding and patience. I appreciate your support and can't wait to share more of the story with you soon.

Best,

unhinged_megalomanic

Chapter Text

Stone could not leave just yet, he had to spend a few more days with the ones he loved. He knew what he had to do today, what he had to tell Skipp. He had to tell him that he loved him, since he knew today would be the only chance he would get.

He would wait until the final day, at night-time Stone would finally leave once Vinnie and Skipp had fallen asleep.

Evening fell upon Ramshackle, Stone’s breath deepened as he approached the two Scraps in the alleyway, he swore he grew up in. Skipp would of course be overjoyed to see him, running up and wrapping his arms around him firmly, like he did not want to let Stone go.

Oh, if only he did not have to.

If only Stone did not have to let go.

Vinnie would let out a laugh, the laugh that he had grown so attached to. The laugh that would always brighten his day. Her laugh, and Skipp’s smile were the two things that kept him sane in this sad excuse of a world. But he had to leave it, or else they would be hurt because of him.

“Stone, you are back! I assume all went well?”

Skipp asked, as optimistic as ever.

Stone would nod, sporting a “Mhm...” at the end.

Stone would then speak up.

“Vinnie, may I talk to you for a moment?”

Vinnie nodded; her face contorted as the smile was now replaced by worry. Stone would not usually ask to talk to her unless it was serious.

“Of course you can, Stone. Hey, I will be right back Skipp, okay?”

Skipp only nodded, before Stone spoke again.

“Don’t worry Skipp, I’ll be talking to you soon after.”

As Vinnie and Stone walked away from Skipp, their footsteps echoed softly against the pavement. The night sky stretched above them, speckled with stars, beautiful stars. Stone took a deep breath, the cool night air filling his lungs as he prepared to open up to Vinnie.

"Vinnie," Stone began, his voice tinged with a mix of apprehension, "There's something I need to talk to you about. It's been weighing on my mind for a long time."

Vinnie turned to face Stone, smiling and nodding; ready to hear Stone out. "Of course, man. You can tell me anything."

Stone took a moment to gather his thoughts, before speaking. "You've always been like a sister to me, Vinnie. From the moment we met.”

Vinnie's expression softened, a fond smile playing on her lips. "And you've been like a brother to me, Stone. We've shared so much over the years."

Stone nodded, a sigh emitting from his lips. "I need to ask you for something, Vinnie. Promise me that you'll keep Skipp safe."

Vinnie's eyes widened slightly, understanding the gravity of Stone's request. "I promise, Stone. Skipp is important to both of us, and I'll do everything in my power to protect him."

Stone's shoulders relaxed; a weight lifted off his chest as he heard Vinnie's sincere promise. "Thank you, Vinnie. Knowing you're there for him gives me peace of mind."

Vinnie chuckled and punched Stone lightly against the shoulder.

“Okay okay enough of this sentimental nonsense, you should talk to Skipp now. He can barely be away from you for more than five minutes without panicking.”

Stone could only smile and nod, he would give Vinnie a quick hug; which she would gladly reciprocate.

“I love you, Vinnie.”

“I love you too, Stoner.”

Stone laughed lightly, he used to hate that name but had soon grown to admire it, parting from the hug briefly after and giving her a light nod.

This was the last time he would ever see or hear from Vinnie again.

As Vinnie walked away from Stone, a subtle unease settled in her heart. She could not shake off the feeling that there was more to Stone's confession than just a heart-to-heart. Her mind raced with questions, wondering if this was a farewell in disguise. But she pushed those thoughts aside.

She had walked away, letting Skipp know it was his turn.

Stone's heart felt heavy as he led Skipp up to their cherished rooftop spot. This place held countless memories of laughter, camaraderie, and shared dreams. Now, it would be the backdrop for a conversation that Stone dreaded—the final farewell.

Silence enveloped them as they settled on the rooftop, the cool night air carrying a sense of bittersweet nostalgia. Skipp, sensing the gravity of the moment, stayed quiet, waiting for Stone to speak. He knew this was serious.

"Skipp," Stone began, his voice slightly shaky, "There's something important I need to tell you."

Skipp turned to him, his eyes wide with anticipation. "What is it, Stone? You look serious..."

“I want you to know that from the moment we met, I knew you would impact my life in ways that I could not even imagine. I am not the best with sentimentality, but you deserve to hear it. You took me in without a second thought, you immediately accepted me as part of the team, and I am forever in debt to your gratitude. The truth is that... That...”

Stone’s words fell short, and silent. His heart ached, it yearned, it begged him to say those three single words. He had to; he knew he had to. If he did not, he would never forgive himself.

Skipp’s eyes glowed with worry, he wrapped his arm around his waist and leaned against his shoulder.

“Take your time, Stone... It is okay.”

Then, after Skipp spoke, memories flooded Stone’s mind.

“And? Look at him, he could be an important asset to our group! Three pairs of hands are better than two, right? Come on Vinnie, pleaseeee?”

“I am so glad to hear that, Stone! I know it must take a lot of courage to want to talk to us of all people... Not being able to console with your family must have been why you have been so distant to talk with us, huh?”

“You will always be a part of our group, whether you doubt that or not. No matter what happens, you will always have us to have your backs. And we know you will have ours if the time comes as well.”

Stone knew exactly what he wanted to say.

“I love you, Skipp.”

Skipp's eyes widened in surprise; he had not expected those words to come out of Stone’s mouth. He took a moment to process Stone's confession, before replying in a soft tone that sounded exactly like an angel.

“Stone, I... I had no idea...” Skipp began, his voice a bit shaky still from the utter shock of Stone’s confession.

While Stone expected heartbreak, he got the exact opposite.

Skipp had turned Stone around so the two would be face to face with one another. Unable to resist the pull of his emotions any longer, he leaned in slowly, his hand reaching up to gently cup Stone's face.

“I love you too, Stone.”

Stone was in utter disbelief; he could only stutter his name.

“S-Skipp...”

He had no idea how to express his happiness and decided it was best for Skipp to continue.

"You mean everything to me too, Stone. I have been waiting for this moment for so long..."

"I'm here for you, Stone," Skipp murmured, his lips brushing against Stone's in a soft, lingering kiss. "Always and forever, I love you...”

Stone just hugged Skipp, that is all he could do. He could not speak, he wanted to, but he just could not. He was able to murmur one final sentence.

“I love you too, Skipp...”

Chapter Text

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Chapter Text

As Stone prepared to leave, his heart heavy with the weight of his impending departure and the knowledge of the pain it would cause Skipp and Vinnie, he could not shake the regret that gnawed at him. The rooftop kiss with Skipp had been a bittersweet moment of love and longing, but it also served as a stark reminder of what could have been if he had confessed his feelings sooner.

He looked over at the two figures whom he called family as they slept peacefully, oh how he wished he could just fall back into slumber with them. But he knew he could not, any day now the Blackwoods would return and reign hell upon Ramshackle, and Stone knew the only way to keep Vinnie, and his newfound love safe was to give himself, and his new life up.

He knelt beside them, brushing a gentle hand over Vinnie's hair, and pressing a soft kiss to Skipp's forehead. "I'm sorry," he whispered, his voice barely audible in the quiet night. “I wish I could protect you both from what is coming, but I must face my past. It's the only way to keep you safe."

Standing up, Stone took one last lingering look at the sleeping figures of his makeshift family. He knew that when they woke up in the morning, he would be gone, leaving behind a void that would be difficult to fill.

Just as Stone thought he could leave; he was met with a familiar face behind him. His eyes widened, and he quickly grabbed Arville and dragged her far away from the alleyway, not wanting the two to wake up and find out about her.

Stone was NOT happy.

“What the fuck do you think you’re doing coming back here, especially so close to them!?” Stone whispered, he desperately wanted to shout but he could not.

Arville would look over at Vinnie and Skipp for the first time, and they looked peaceful. Skipp even had a smile on his face, the smile only an angel could give to Stone.

“So, those are the blood ba-... Friends, Stone?”

Stone did not believe Arville’s sudden change in attitude.

“Do not try and fool me Arville, I know why you are here. And do not you DARE lay a hand on either of them.”

“Oh, dear brother, would you relax? I am not here to do anything to you or your friends. I simply want to talk to you. It is about mother and father.”

Stone's expression hardened. "What about them? I made my choice, Arville. I am already going back; for them.”

Arville took a deep breath, trying to steady her emotions. "I know, Stone. I understand why you left. But they are furious. They want me to bring you back... by force if necessary."

Stone's eyes widened, anger and disbelief mingling in his gaze. "By force? So, they have sent you to drag me back? Is that it?"

"No," Arville said quickly, shaking her head. "I didn't come here to force you. I came to talk, to try to find another way. They... they want to use you to send a message to your friends. If they find you with us, they plan to kill your friends in front of you."

Stone's face paled, and he took a step back. "They're willing to go that far? To use me as bait?"

"Yes," Arville whispered, her voice breaking. "But I begged them to give you a chance to come back willingly, to explain yourself. Father agreed, but it is your only chance. If you refuse... they'll do whatever it takes."

Stone's gaze softened as he looked at her, his resolve evident. "I was always willing to go back, Arville. Not because I agree with them, but because I want to protect my friends. But hearing this... it makes everything more complicated."

"I know," Arville whispered, reaching out to take his hand. "But we must try. Maybe if you talk to them, they can understand. Maybe there's still a way to avoid all this violence."

Stone squeezed his sister’s hand firmly, his eyes filled with determination. "I'll go back, and I'll talk to them. But I need you to promise me something, Arville."

"Anything," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Promise me you'll be there with me. That you will not let them hurt our friends, no matter what happens. I am giving you one, and only one chance Arville.”

Arville nodded, her heart aching with the gravity of his request. "I promise, Stone. We'll face them together."

Chapter Text

Arville and Stone made their way to the Blackwood mansion in silence, their footsteps crunching softly on the gravel path. The mansion loomed ahead; its dark silhouette outlined against the twilight sky. Shadows danced across its ancient stone walls, a testament to the many secrets and sorrows it held within.

Arville stole a glance at her brother. She knew the weight he carried, the decision to return and face their parents' wrath. Her heart ached for him, for the pain he was about to endure. She squeezed his hand gently, offering a silent promise of solidarity.

As they approached the wrought iron gates, they swung open with a creak, welcoming Stone back to the place that had once been his home. The path leading to the front door was lined with towering oak trees, their branches intertwining overhead, casting eerie shadows in the fading light.

They reached the front steps and paused. Stone took a deep breath, steeling himself for the confrontation ahead. Arville could see the tension in his shoulders, the resolve in his eyes.

"Ready?" she asked softly.

Stone nodded, his voice low and steady. "Let’s just get this over with, already."

They ascended the steps and Arville knocked on the massive wooden door. It swung open almost immediately, revealing their mother standing in the foyer, her eyes blazing with a mixture of anger and relief.

"You came back," she said, her voice cold and hard.

Stone met her gaze unflinchingly. "I came to talk. To explain. That is it."

Their father appeared behind their mother; his expression unreadable. "Then come in," he said, stepping aside to allow them entry.

Arville and Stone stepped inside, the familiar scent of old wood and faint traces and smell of blood enveloping them. The door closed behind them with a heavy thud, sealing them in.

Their mother led them to the parlor, where a fire crackled in the hearth, casting flickering shadows on the walls. She motioned for them to sit, Arville taking the seat gladly. But Stone refused, he would not move an inch closer to them.

"Explain," their father said, his voice devoid of emotion.

Stone took a deep breath, his eyes locking onto his parents'. "I left because I couldn't stand the life I was living. The violence, the manipulation, the constant fear. I wanted something different, something better. And I found it, with friends who accepted me for who I am."

Their mother's eyes narrowed. "And yet you come back, tail between your legs."

"I'm not here because I regret leaving," Stone replied, his voice steady. "I'm here because I care about my friends, and because I don't want anyone else or them to get hurt."

Arville stepped forward, her voice trembling. "Mother, Father, please... Stone's friends are innocent. They do not deserve to be dragged into our family's conflicts...”

Their father remained silent; his gaze fixed on the floor. Finally, he looked up, his eyes meeting Stone's. "You say you want to talk. Then talk. Convince us why we shouldn't proceed with our plan."

Stone took a step closer, his eyes burning with frustration. "Because if you do, you'll lose me forever. There's a better way to deal with this, a way that doesn't involve bloodshed."

Their mother crossed her arms, her expression hard. "And what way is that?"

Stone looked at Arville, then back at their parents sternly. "I will stay here, willingly. But you must spare my friends and everyone else living below. That is my only offer.”

The silence that followed was thick with tension, the crackling of the fire the only sound in the room. Arville held her breath, praying that their parents would see reason.

Finally, their father spoke, his voice heavy with resignation. "We will accept what you have said, Stone. But know this: if you betray us again, there will be no mercy for any of them."

Stone nodded, hope in his eyes. "I understand. Thank you, Father."

“We shall find a punishment for you that seems fit, for now you shall go to your living quarters and stay there. You have a LOT to make up for, Stone Blackwood.”

Stone would only nod, his face cold and blank. His heart hurt more than he could have imagined, but he knew this was for the best. It was the only way; he knew it would not last forever.

Arville watched as her brother ascended the stairs to his room, hopeful but still fearful.

Were his parents really telling the truth?

Chapter Text

It had only been a week since Stone had gone missing, leaving holes in both Vinnie and Skipp’s hearts that could never be mended.

Skipp thought the worst.

“What if that history book was true!? What if Stone was killed by those mysterious Blackwood vampires!?”

It was hard for Skipp not to panic. The day after Stone had confessed, he would go missing, which was unlike Stone because he had never had any intention of ever leaving. He would sob every night in Vinnie’s arms, wondering if Stone was truly gone forever.

Vinnie knew deep down Stone was as tough as rock and would not give up easily. Whatever happened to him, though, it seemed impossible for him to escape.

Skipp stood up and paced back and forth in their small alleyway home, his mind racing with thoughts of Stone. “We must do something, Vinnie!!! We cannot just sit here and wait for news that might never come! What if he is in danger!?"

Vinnie nodded. "You're right, Skipp... We will start by retracing his steps, maybe there's something we missed, a clue that could lead us to him."

They gathered their coats and stepped out into the dimly lit alley. The narrow space between buildings felt suffocating as they made their way towards the main streets of Ramshackle. Skipp could not shake the feeling of dread that hung over him like a dark cloud.

As they reached the bustling main street, they scanned the crowd, hoping for any sign of their missing friend; for Skipp’s missing lover. Skipp's eyes darted from one person to the next, his heart pounding with each passing moment.

Skipp urged, his voice trembling with emotion. "Stone wouldn't just vanish like this... There must be something we are missing, there must be...”

"Let's talk to people around here, maybe someone saw something that could help us." Vinnie replied.

For hours, they questioned passersby, asking if anyone had seen Stone recently. Some remembered seeing him, but no one had any information about what happened to him afterward, or even cared much about him.

Back at their alleyway home, Skipp slumped against the cold brick wall, his frustration and worry evident in every line of his face. Tears inevitably formed in his eyes as he tried so hard not to burst into an emotional outburst of heartache. "What if we never find him, Vinnie?.. What if he is... Really gone?.."

Vinnie sat down beside him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "We won't give up, Skipp... Stone is out there somewhere, and we'll keep searching until we bring him home, I promise..."

Skipp leaned into Vinnie's embrace, finding solace in her hugs as he sobbed softly. "I just miss him so much, Vinnie... It is like a part of me is missing..."

“Me too...” Vinnie said, “Me too... We will get through this together," Vinnie reassured him. "Stone is strong, and he wouldn't want us to lose hope. We will find him, Skipp. I promise."

Chapter Text

Hello everyone!!!

I wanted to let you know that my story, "A Blood-Filled Stone," will be on a small hiatus until sometime next week, since I'll be busy this whole week attending to some familial and personal matters. Thank you for your understanding and patience, I am glad you are all enjoying my story!

Chapter Text

TLDR:

I’m sorry for the long delay and want to thank you all for the incredible support—it means everything to me. I promise to focus on finishing this story, with new chapters coming soon, hopefully by Sunday. I’ll be rereading everything to ensure consistency.

I’ve also been considering a sequel and might look for a Co-Creator. If you’re interested, let me know in the comments. For fun, feel free to write a non-canon short story based on this one—it won’t affect the main plot.

Finally, I’m excited to confirm that Skipp/Stone will be a canon pairing, as I’ve been building toward it from the start. Thanks again for sticking with me!

Longer Explaination:

Hello everyone, this update was long overdue, and for that I greatly apologize. I absolutely love this story with all my heart, all the support I've gotten on it has made me so overwhelmingly happy. I wouldn't have the motivation if it weren't for you all, and that's where I feel like I've let you all down. I know we all have our own things in life to deal with, and I can't always be available to update this story. You all deserve an apology, regardless of if you tell me that it isn't necessary. Funnily enough I have actually been considering somehow making a sequel to this story, I already have so many plot points in the works for this work that I feel confident enough in myself to have enough material for it. But I have to focus on this one first, and I will. I can make this promise, I will not be gone as long as I was, I already have some chapters ready for uploading that I will release hopefully this Sunday. Since I haven't touched this in a while, I'll have to reread everything from start to where it is now to make sure everything lines up and fits with the story.

Another announcement, if by some miracle I do ever decide to follow along with a sequel, I would really love to have a Co-Creator by my side to make sure it's absolutely flawless. If by chance you are interested, do let me know in the comments. I won't be holding any contests, but if you'd like a challenge, it'd be to create a NON-CANON short story based off this story alone. It can be anything from light-hearted to even serious if you'd like. Please note that none of them will be canon to my story, as it could cause unbalance.

And I know a lot of people were asking me if Skipp/Stone will be a canon pairing in this story, and I am here to confirm that YES, it will be. It's been implied from the start that I wanted these two to be romantically involved in some way, and I hope that my build-up to it has been good so far.

Well, that'll be it from me, I look forward to finishing this wonderful story. Every single bit of support is and always will be appreciated. Cya around! :)

Chapter Text

Stone's nights within the Blackwood mansion were filled with a heavy silence that mirrored the weight of his choices. Trapped in his room, his only reprieve from the suffocating walls was when his parents summoned him to feed. The hunger that gnawed at his undead core was both a curse and a reminder of his vampiric nature.

Each night, as the moon rose high in the sky, Mother or Father would come to his door, a tray laden with a goblet filled with blood. It was the elixir of life for a vampire, the sustenance that kept them anchored to their immortal existence. Stone would drink deeply, the metallic tang of blood awakening his senses and temporarily sating the insatiable hunger within.

But with each feeding came a surge of guilt and self-loathing. The blood of mortals sustained him, yet it also reminded him of the lives he had to consume to survive. His parents' decree was clear — he was to feed only on those they deemed expendable, mortals whose absence would go unnoticed in the grand tapestry of human existence.

As the nights stretched into weeks, Stone's mind became a battleground between his innate thirst for blood and his dwindling sense of humanity. He struggled to reconcile the monster within with the memories of the boy he once was, torn between the primal urge to survive and the moral compass that still flickered within his undead heart.

Each night, as he paced the confines of his room, Stone wrestled with conflicting emotions. His love for Vinnie and Skipp was a beacon of light in the darkness of his existence, a reminder of the humanity he clung to despite his vampiric nature. But their safety came at a steep price — his own freedom.

One night, as Stone sat by his window, gazing at the moonlit garden below, a sense of acceptance washed over him. He had made his choice — to remain bound within the mansion's walls, a silent guardian watching over Vinnie and Skipp from afar. It was a role he had chosen willingly, a penance for the sins of his vampiric nature.

Arville, sensing her brother's resignation, approached him. "Stone, you don't have to carry this burden alone," she murmured, her voice filled with compassion. "We can find a way to protect them without sacrificing your own freedom."

Stone turned to her. "No, Arville. This is my duty, my choice. Vinnie and Skipp deserve a life free from the shadow of my life. I will bear this burden and I will not go back on it.”

Arville's brow furrowed in concern. "But what kind of life is this for you, Stone? To be trapped within these walls, to only see the world through a window? It's not fair."

Stone's expression softened, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "Life isn't always fair, Arville. Sometimes we must make sacrifices for those we love. Vinnie and Skipp mean everything to me, and if this is what it takes to keep them safe, then I'll endure it."

“But there must be another way,” Arville insisted, her voice tinged with desperation. "You can't just accept this fate. We must find a way to break you free from our parents' control, to live your life on your own terms.”

Stone's response was laced with a cold anger that simmered beneath the surface; his patience worn thin by the confines of his captivity. "Arville, your words are filled with naivety. Do you not understand the gravity of our situation? Our family's control is absolute, and any attempt to defy them would be foolish and futile."

His voice had a sharp edge, reflecting the turmoil within him. "I have been trapped within these walls for too long, forced to endure their demands and restrictions. Do not presume to lecture me on freedom when you have not experienced the weight of our reality."

Arville recoiled slightly, sensing the underlying turmoil in Stone's tone. "I only want what's best for you, Stone," she pleaded, her voice tinged with desperation. "Surely there must be a way to break free from their control without endangering yourself."

Stone's eyes flashed with a cold fury, but beneath the anger was a flicker of raw fear. Tears began to linger in his reddened, baggy eyes. "You speak of possibilities and dreams, Arville, but reality is unforgiving. We are bound by blood and duty, and there is no easy escape from that, damnit!”

Arville's resolve wavered under Stone's intense gaze, her concern deepening as she saw the cracks in his facade. "Stone, I can find a way to help you, to free you from this torment. Please, do not give up hope..."

But Stone's response was a chilling whisper, tinged with despair. "I can't risk hurting Vinnie and Skipp. My sanity is slipping, Arville. I do not know how much longer I can hold on..."

With that, Stone turned away, his mind a storm of conflicting emotions and his grip on reality slipping further. Arville was left alone, her heart heavy with the weight of her brother's suffering and the daunting realization of their grim reality.

Chapter Text

It had been an entire year since Stone's disappearance, and the weight of his absence hung heavily over the small town of Ramshackle. Skipp's heart ached with every passing day, each moment a reminder of the man he loved. Stone had been more than just a protector and mentor; he had been Skipp's partner, his anchor in a chaotic world.

Skipp had spent countless nights rereading the books, deciphering any clues he could use to his advantage, and gathering every shred of information about Blackwood Mansion. The time for waiting was over. He knew where to go, and he could not wait any longer.
Vinnie, his closest friend besides Stone, watched him with a mix of concern and fear. She had seen the toll this year had taken on Skipp—the sleepless nights, the restless pacing, the obsessive determination. She feared for him, but even more, she feared the place they were headed. Blackwood Mansion was a name whispered in hushed tones, a place of dark legends and unspeakable horrors.

"Skipp, are you sure about this?" Vinnie asked, her voice trembling as she looked at the weathered book spread open across the small box in their alleyway hideout. "What if... what if we don't make it back?"
"We owe it to Stone. After everything he has done for us, I cannot just leave him there. I won't leave him there."
Vinnie took a deep breath, her hands trembling as she ran them through her brown hair. "I know, Skipp. But... it is Blackwood Mansion. People who go there don't come back."

Skipp slammed his fist on one of the various boxes, making Vinnie jump. "You think I don't know that!? You think I have not thought about that every single day!? But I cannot live by myself if I do not try!... Stone would not leave us behind, and I am not going to leave him!"
Vinnie looked into Skipp's eyes, seeing the raw pain burning in them. She sighed, knowing there was no changing his mind. She had been afraid, but the thought of Skipp going alone scared her even more. He was right—they owed it to Stone, and they owed it to each other.

"Okay," she said softly, her voice steadying. "Okay, we'll do this. But we do it together. We plan, we prepare, and we do not leave each other’s side. Promise me that."
Skipp nodded, the anger in his eyes softening. "I promise, Vinnie. We do this together."
The two of them spent the next few days gathering supplies—flashlights, weapons, and anything they thought might give them an edge. The air grew colder, the sky darker, as if the town itself sensed the impending journey and mourned the fate that awaited them.

Finally, the day arrived. The sun had dipped below the horizon, casting the world in a ghostly twilight. Skipp and Vinnie stood at the edge of Ramshackle, the dense forest before them like a gaping maw leading to Blackwood Mansion. They could feel the weight of their decision, the gravity of the path they had chosen.
Vinnie turned to Skipp; her eyes wide but resolute. "Are you ready?"

Skipp met her gaze, a flicker of fear dancing behind his steely determination. "As ready as I'll ever be."

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They knew.
Stone's parents knew whoever these friends of his were, that they would be coming for him. Even if Stone had no idea, they always knew deep down they would come and try to take their son away. Even if Stone willingly gave himself up, they knew he would jump at the last opportunity to be with them again.
They could not let that happen.

Mother was pacing back and forth throughout the main quarters of their pristine mansion, which reeked of old blood and rotting flesh.

Arville was sitting at the dining table, her expression worrisome.

Father was right at his wife’s side, a cold hand caressing her shoulder.

“They will be coming, Alaric. I know it, I question Stone’s loyalty if his blood bags do manage to make it here unscathed.”

“Do not worry, Valeria. We will make sure they will not get far, besides... It has been an entire year, even more, since Stone gave his freedom up for them. Even if they do manage to make it here, there is not a chance Stone’s mind is the same as it foolishly was back then.”

Valeria’s cold gaze met Alaric’s; she could not help but agree with him.

Alaric was always right.
“But still, we should still be sure that Stone’s loyalty stays with us. We still have not found a fit enough punishment for him yet, Alaric.”

Alaric stood silent and thought for a moment, he knew exactly what to do.

“Arville! Front and center, now!”

Arville, questioning her loyalty would immediately stand up straight in front of her father.

“Yes, father? Yes, mother?”

“Go out past the mansion and scout for those two blood bags. We have an itching feeling that whoever these blood bags presume to be are on their way to the mansion. We have heavy faith that Stone will make the right decision, but we must be sure. Once you scout them out, dispose of them.”

Arville had only ever gotten a glimpse of Stone’s friends, one a male and the other a female. She could only nod, and unlike Stone she could not dare say no as much as she wanted to.

“Yes, father. I will not let you down.”

And with that Arville would leave the mansion and go deep into the outskirts of the forest that led to their home, her parents looking at one another and sighing.

“This shall be good of enough punishment for Stone...”

Chapter Text

It would be a tedious journey to get to the Blackwood mansion, and as the two Scraps pushed forward Vinnie would stop for a moment to catch her breath. Skipp was too eager to find Stone to stop, but once she had called out to him Skipp stopped, tending to Vinnie’s exhaustion.

"Vinnie, are you okay?" Skipp asked, his voice gentle as he walked back to her. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder as he spoke.

Vinnie nodded, taking a deep breath. "Yeah, just... give me a second Skipp... This place is creeping me out, and I do not normally get freaked out by anything, ever.”

Skipp gave Vinnie a reassuring smile, leading them both somewhere where they could rest momentarily. "I know it’s tough, so let's rest for a moment! We need to stick together, Vinnie! We will get through this, Stone is counting on us, but we must take care of ourselves too.”
“Thanks, Skipp. You are a great moral compass, you know that?” Vinnie teased as she sat down on a nearby log.

Skipp giggled at Vinnie’s comment, sitting down right beside her, and leaning against her shoulder for support. “Oh heh, it’s nothing Vinnie!”

Suddenly, a rustling in the bushes nearby caught their attention. Both Scraps tensed, ready for anything, when a figure emerged.

It was Arville, Stone's sister, her face a mask of worry.

Though, neither Vinnie nor Skipp knew who she was.

Arville had glanced around nervously, as if expecting to be followed by her parents.

"Who are you!?" Vinnie asked, standing up quickly, her eyes narrowing.

"I'm Arville, I came to warn you... You must turn back; my parents know you are on your way to save Stone! They are convinced he will betray them again and they will not hesitate to stop you, or worse... I was sent by them to destroy you both but after spending that year with Stone I realized what my parents are doing is wrong...”

Skipp's eyes flashed with anger and suspicion, standing up and approaching Arville with a weapon. "How do we know you're not the one who took Stone!? This could be a trap!"

Arville took a step back, her hands raised defensively. "I-I swear, I’m here to help! I know what my parents are capable of, and I do not want anyone else getting hurt, I promise!...”

"Likely story," Skipp snapped, stepping more forward aggressively. "How do we know you’re not lying!? You could be leading us into a trap right now!"

Vinnie quickly moved between them, placing a hand on Skipp’s chest to hold him back. "Skipp, calm down damnit! We need to think this through!"

"But Vinnie, what if she’s the enemy? We cannot just trust her!" Skipp protested, his eyes never leaving Arville.

"I get it, Skipp, but we need to be smart about this. If she is telling the truth, we need to know what we are up against. If she is lying, we will deal with it. But for now, let’s hear her out, please." Vinnie reasoned, her voice steady.

Skipp hesitated, his eyes flicking between Vinnie and Arville before finally stepping back, though his posture remained tense and ready.

Arville let out a breath she did not realize she had been holding. "Thank you. Listen, if you are determined to go, you need to be prepared. While there are not any traps this place is full of dangerous things, creatures you would not think were possible to exist.”

Vinnie nodded slowly, absorbing the information. "We’ll be careful, but if we find out you’re lying, there will be consequences you hear me lady!?”

Arville met her gaze, sincerity in her eyes. "I understand, just promise me you’ll be careful, okay? I do not want to see any of you get hurt when going to save Stone... And... I am his sister...”

Vinnie and Skipp exchanged a look of shock and disbelief, Stone had never mentioned he had a sister. "Stone's sister!? The fuck!?" Vinnie repeated, incredulous.

"Why should we believe you!?" Skipp demanded; his tone still suspicious.

"I know it's hard to believe..." Arville said, her voice softening. "But it's true, Stone didn't talk about me because of our parents, he wanted to protect me... And maybe to protect you from them too."

Vinnie studied Arville's face for a moment, then turned to Skipp. "We need to verify this somehow, but for now, let's proceed with caution."

Skipp nodded reluctantly. "Fine. But I'm keeping an eye on her."

Arville gave a small, sad smile. "I understand, just promise me you’ll be careful... I do not want to see any of you get hurt. I will help in the background; all I ask is that you free my brother and get him, as well as you both out of this mess safely...”

With that, she turned and disappeared back into the forest, leaving Vinnie and Skipp alone to contemplate on what to do next.

“But why would Stone be at the Blackwood’s mansion?...” Was all Skipp could ponder, wishing he could have asked Arville more questions.

“I might know why Skipp, but... I am not liking where all these clues are leading towards, let us just pray for the best and get Stone the hell out of that mansion, regardless of why he is there. I do know this, there will be a hell of a lot of questions he better answer once we get his ass out.”

The two Scraps nodded at one another and pressed onward, hoping that Arville was indeed on their side. And that Stone was not what the two feared he could be.

As Vinnie and Skipp continued their journey, the sun began to dip beneath the horizon, casting the surrounding woods in a dusky glow. The faint rustling of leaves filled the silence between them as the weight of Arville’s warning hung in the air. Every step forward felt more perilous than the last, yet the resolve to save Stone kept them moving.

Unbeknownst to the two, high above them, perched atop an ancient oak tree, was a figure shrouded in shadow. Her bat-like wings spread wide, blending into the fading twilight. Her eyes gleamed with an eerie, predatory intelligence as she observed the Scraps below.

Valeria, mother of Arville and the force behind much of her son’s turmoil, had been watching the entire exchange from the shadows. Her form flickered momentarily as a slight breeze ruffled her wings, but she remained perfectly still, an unnerving presence in the darkening forest.

From her perch, she knew their path would only grow more dangerous. She had seen enough.

"They'll never be ready for what awaits them," Valeria whispered to herself, her voice as cold as the night air. "But let them try... Let them believe they have a chance."

With a swift movement, she disappeared into the night, her wings beating softly, leaving behind no trace of her watchful gaze.

Chapter Text

Ramshackle, mid-1800s
--------------------
The Blackwood mansion, nestled deep within the foreboding forest of Ramshackle, stood as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Blackwood family. The mid-1800s brought with them an air of change, but within the mansion's shadowed halls, tradition reigned supreme. Arville Blackwood paced the dimly lit corridors, her footsteps echoing softly against the cold stone floor. The night had been restless, filled with unsettling dreams that left her on edge. Her baby brother who was recently born, Stone, lay sleeping peacefully in his crib, unaware of the turmoil stirring within his sister.

In her dreams, Arville had seen flashes of a life she did not recognize. She was older, standing over a battlefield strewn with fallen warriors, her hands stained with blood. A voice, eerily familiar, whispered accusations of betrayal and treachery, filling her with a deep sense of guilt.

She stopped at the nursery door, gazing at Stone’s innocent face. “I’ll protect you,” she whispered, more to herself than to him. “I’ll keep you safe from them.”

A soft knock on the doorframe pulled her from her thoughts. She turned to see her mother, Valeria, standing there, her expression unreadable.

“May I come in?” Valeria’s voice was as smooth as silk, but Arville detected an edge beneath the surface.

“Of course, Mother.” Arville stepped aside, allowing Valeria to enter. The room felt colder with her presence, and Arville suppressed a shiver.

Valeria moved to the crib, gazing down at Stone with a smile that did not reach her eyes. “He is beautiful, isn’t he? So much potential.”

“Yes, he is.” Arville watched her mother carefully. “What do you want, Mother?”

Valeria’s smile widened. “Just to talk, my dear. You have seemed troubled lately. Your father and I are concerned.”

Arville clenched her fists, forcing herself to stay calm. “I am fine. Just… dreams.”

“Dreams can be powerful,” Valeria said softly. “They can show us truths we don’t want to see.”

“Or lies,” Arville muttered, unable to hide her frustration.

Valeria’s eyes flashed. “Sometimes, lies are what we need to hear to protect ourselves.”

Arville looked away, her mind racing. “What are you saying, Mother?”

Valeria reached out, gently placing a hand on Arville’s shoulder. “There are things you do not remember, things your mind has buried to protect you. Your father and I have always tried to shield you from the harshest truths, but it is time you understood.”

“Understood what?” Arville demanded, pulling away.

“The legacy you bear,” Valeria said, her voice dropping to a whisper. “The Blackwood name. You are destined to keep our legacy alive, to teach Stone how to be a true vampire. One that shows no mercy, one that only relies on humans as blood bags. There is no room for friends in this world.”

Arville felt a cold shiver run down her spine. “I know my duty, Mother. I do not need reminders.”

Valeria sighed, a look of sorrow crossing her face. “It is more than duty, my dear. It is about survival. There are things your mind has buried to protect you. Memories that, if surfaced, will help you understand the importance of our ways.”

Arville shook her head, backing away. “No. This is just another one of your manipulations.”

Valeria’s expression hardened. “We only want what is best for you, Arville. For you and for Stone. You must be strong, for his sake. You must remember who your true enemies are.”

Just then, Alaric entered the room, his imposing figure casting a long shadow across the nursery. His eyes softened as he looked at Arville and then at Stone. "Would you like to hold him, Arville?" he asked, his voice surprisingly gentle.

Arville hesitated, then nodded. Alaric carefully lifted Stone from the crib and placed him in Arville’s arms. She cradled her brother gently, feeling the warmth of his small body against hers. For a moment, the world outside the nursery faded away, leaving only the soft breaths of the sleeping baby and the comforting weight in her arms.

Alaric and Valeria exchanged glances, then Valeria spoke again, her voice soft and persuasive. “You were always meant to protect him, Arville. To guide him. Just as you have always been taught to uphold our legacy.”

Arville looked up, her eyes meeting Valeria’s. “I don’t remember.”

“You will,” Alaric said, placing a hand on her shoulder. “In time, you will. For now, just know that we are all counting on you. Stone is counting on you.”

As she held her brother, Arville could not shake the feeling that something was deeply wrong. The dreams, her parents’ words, the sense of something buried deep within her mind—it all gnawed at her, creating a whirlwind of confusion and doubt.

That night, the dreams returned vigorously. This time, they were more vivid, more real. She saw herself standing over a scene of devastation, her hands stained with blood, as voices echoed in her mind, accusing her of betrayal and treachery.

When she awoke, drenched in sweat, she could not shake the images from her mind. They felt too real, too raw. Could her parents be right? Had she buried memories so dark, so painful, that she could not bear to remember them?

Over the next few days, the dreams continued, each one more detailed than the last. Arville found herself avoiding Alaric, unable to look her father in the eye. The doubt gnawed at her, growing stronger with each passing night.

Valeria and Alaric seized every opportunity to reinforce the false memories. At dinner, they spoke in hushed tones of past betrayals and the importance of loyalty. They praised Arville for her strength and resilience, subtly hinting at the sacrifices she had made for the family.

One evening, Alaric took her aside, his gaze intense. “You are special, Arville. You have always been the protector of this family. Your brother Stone will need you to be strong. Remember your duty.”

“I will, Father,” Arville whispered, her voice trembling with uncertainty.

As she left, Alaric’s words echoed in her mind. “Remember your duty.” The line between reality and the implanted memories blurred further, leaving Arville questioning everything she thought she knew.

But she had to remain loyal to her parents no matter what.

Chapter Text

Hey everyone, it's good to give another update.

I just wanted to take a moment to give you all an update on this story and to say another huge thank you for all the support I’ve received, both before and after my return from hiatus. It really means the world to me, and I appreciate every bit of it. You all keep me motivated, and I’m so grateful to have such amazing readers.

Now, onto the updates. I know I was supposed to upload a chapter on March 2nd, but I got caught up and wasn’t able to get it out in time. I sincerely apologize for that. Life happens, and sometimes writing takes longer than expected, but I still appreciate your patience.

With that said, I’ll be taking a short break from the story for Spring Break (which starts for me in college soon). This means I won’t be posting any new chapters until March 23rd. Once that chapter is out, I’ll have to head back to the writing board since I haven’t written past Chapter 21 yet. Because of this, and with the break, chapter uploads will most likely stop being a weekly thing. I don’t want to rush the story, and I want to make sure I’m telling it in the best way possible. I hope you all understand.

Please, PLEASE don’t bother me with endless messages asking when a new chapter will be released. It’ll be released when it’s ready.

See you all on the 23rd!

Chapter Text

This was it; they had finally made it. Granted the journey was very tedious, Skipp and Vinnie had managed to make it to the Blackwood mansion, granted with a few bumps and bruises along the way. The mansion loomed above the two, it being a stark contrast to the sights and brightness of their hometown.
Before the two rushed into things, they had to produce some sort of plan.
Standing at the edge of the Blackwood estate, Vinnie and Skipp exchanged weary glances. The mansion, dark and imposing, loomed before them like a silent sentinel. Its jagged spires reached toward the sky, and the broken windows caught the faint light of the moon, making it look almost like a place of death rather than a home. The wind howled, sending shivers down their spines as the sound of rustling leaves echoed through the empty grounds.
"We made it," Skipp muttered, his voice a mix of exhaustion and dread. "But I feel like walking into that place is a one-way ticket to disaster."

Vinnie nodded, taking a deep breath to steady her nerves. "No argument here. We need to come up with a plan, and it has to be a damn good one."
She paced a few steps back and forth, her mind racing as she tried to piece together the information they had. Arville’s warnings, Stone’s silence, the strange happenings surrounding the mansion... none of it made sense, but they were here now. They had no choice but to face whatever awaited them.
Skipp, sensing her growing unease, spoke up. "Alright, let’s think this through. First thing's first: we don’t know if Stone’s inside, or if he’s even alive. We need to find him quickly and get out if he does end up being in there. If Arville's telling the truth, we have no time to waste."
"Agreed," Vinnie said, stopping in her tracks and turning to face him. "But we can’t just charge in blindly. We need to be stealthy. If Arville’s parents are as dangerous as she says, then we need to be careful."

Skipp gripped the hilt of his weapon, eyes scanning the mansion's dark silhouette. "Stealth’s good, but even though we’re both really skilled at it, we should probably rely on something else. So, we’ll have to rely on speed and surprise. Get in, get Stone, and get out before anyone knows what hit 'em!"
Vinnie nodded slowly. "Alright, so here’s the plan: We head to the back of the mansion, there’s a service entrance that might be less guarded. We make our way through the lower floors, avoid any major rooms, and try to find out where Stone’s being held. If we can’t find him right away, we’ll search the place floor by floor. We don’t get separated. Stick together, always."
Skipp’s eyes darkened, but his resolve hardened. "And if we run into trouble?"
Vinnie’s gaze locked onto his, her voice low but steady. "We fight. But we need to avoid unnecessary conflict. If it gets too messy, we pull back and find another way."
Finally, Vinnie spoke again, her voice firm. "We don’t know what kind of people we’re dealing with here, or what kind of monsters this place could hide, but one thing’s certain: we’re not leaving without Stone."
Skipp cracked a smile, though it was small and tinged with nerves. "Damn right we’re not!"

With a shared look of determination, the two turned toward the mansion, their footsteps crunching on the gravel path as they made their way to the back. The air grew colder, the tension thick in the air. Every creak of the mansion’s structure felt like a warning, but they had no choice but to move forward.
They reached the back door, which stood ajar as though it had been waiting for them. Vinnie held up a hand, signaling for Skipp to stop. She peeked inside, her eyes adjusting to the dim light.
"No sign of movement," she whispered. "We move fast, but quiet. Stay close."

They slipped inside, the door creaking softly as it shut behind them. The air inside was musty, thick with blood and the scent of decay. A heavy silence hung in the hallways; the kind that made every sound seem louder than it was.
Vinnie motioned for Skipp to follow her down a narrow corridor, the walls lined with portraits of long-dead ancestors. She couldn’t shake the feeling that those eyes were watching them as they moved, but she forced herself to ignore it.
As they continued deeper into the mansion, every creak of the floorboards beneath their feet seemed to echo through the empty halls. The shadows grew thicker, and the silence more oppressive. Something was wrong, but they couldn’t afford to hesitate now.

Without warning, a soft flutter of wings reached their ears, and for a brief, horrifying moment, Vinnie thought she had imagined it. But then the sound came again, closer this time. She froze, her hand on her weapon, as Skipp looked to her with alarm.
"What was that?" Skipp whispered urgently.
Vinnie’s eyes narrowed as the bat fluttered above them, the shape momentarily casting a shadow across the walls. But before either of them could react, the sound faded into the eerie silence of the mansion, leaving nothing but a chill in the air.
Vinnie exhaled slowly, glancing up at the high, arched ceiling. "Just a bat... probably nothing," she muttered, trying to shake off the unease creeping up her spine.
Skipp didn't seem convinced. "Yeah, but it felt... different... Like we were being watched... Maybe it’s just my nerves..."
Vinnie gave him a reassuring nod. "Stay focused, Skipp. We’re here for one reason: Stone. Let's stick to the plan."

They pressed forward, cautiously making their way through the winding halls. The mansion seemed endless, its dark, twisting corridors leading them deeper into its heart. The sound of their footsteps echoed through the abandoned halls, and every creak of the old wooden floors sent a shiver down their spines. There was something unsettling about this place, but neither of them could afford to dwell on it for too long.
As they turned a corner, Vinnie held up a hand, signaling for Skipp to stop. Ahead, a dim light flickered from beneath a door, its edges barely visible in the darkness. She motioned toward the door with a tilt of her head, and Skipp nodded, his expression serious.
They approached quietly, Vinnie testing the handle to find it unlocked. The door creaked open slowly, revealing a small room bathed in the soft glow of candlelight. Inside, a dusty old desk sat in the center, surrounded by shelves filled with books and various strange objects. But it was the figure in the corner that drew their attention.

A man, tall and thin, sat in a chair with his back to them. He had an air of authority about him, his dark, long hair spilling over his shoulders. He seemed to be lost in thought, unaware of their presence.
"Who’s that?" Skipp whispered, his voice barely audible.
Vinnie’s hand tightened around the hilt of her weapon, her eyes scanning the room. "No idea. But we should be careful. This might be a trap."
The man turned slightly, his posture stiffening as if sensing their presence. Vinnie tensed, ready to act, but before she could make a move, the man spoke.
"I wouldn’t do that if I were you," his voice was cold, almost amused. "You might find this mansion... More dangerous than you think, foolish bloodbags."
The words hung in the air, sending a chill through both of them. The figure turned fully now, revealing a face that was as unsettling as it was familiar.
He looked like Stone—just older, darker, and far more menacing.
"Who are you?" Vinnie demanded, her voice firm despite the sudden surge of adrenaline.
The man’s lips curled into a cruel smile, his fangs being ever so apparent. "I could ask you the same thing," he said, standing up slowly. "But I think we both know why you're here. So let's cut to the chase, shall we?"
Vinnie and Skipp exchanged a wary glance. They hadn't come this far to back down now.
"We’re here for Stone," Vinnie replied, her voice unwavering. "Where is he?"
The man’s smile faltered for a moment before he spoke again, his tone shifting. "Stone… My son, he's here, yes. But whether or not he’s the one you think he is... Well, that remains to be seen."
A faint chuckle escaped him, and Vinnie felt a chill creep down her spine. This wasn’t just about rescuing someone. It was far more complicated than that.
Skipp stepped forward, his eyes narrowing. "What are you talking about!? What have you done to him!?"
The man held up a hand, signaling them to stop. "I haven't done anything... Yet. But the real question is: What are you willing to do to save him?"

Chapter Text

Hello, everyone.

It’s with a heart full of gratitude and excitement that I finally announce that "A Blood-Filled Stone" is officially finished! After much love, hard work, and dedication, the story is ready to be published weekly once again. I want to take a moment to thank you all for staying with me through this journey, it truly means the world to me.

Finishing this story and having the chance to flesh out these characters in such an immersive and almost impossible way has been absolutely wonderful. While this story will be coming to a close, there's much more to come. A sequel is confirmed, though it’s not yet determined when production will officially begin. But rest assured, the story of these characters is far from over.

I can officially announce that the name of this sequel will be titled "A Blood-Filled Dawn," though it may be changed during production, if anyone has any suggestions, do let me know. I would love for you guys to be involved in the making of this story.

Thank you again for being part of this adventure. I’m beyond excited for what’s next, and I can’t wait to share the next chapters with you.

With love and gratitude,
unhinged_megalomaniac

Chapter Text

The man towered before them, his dark eyes glinting with a malicious, almost detached amusement. His fangs, gleaming with unnatural sharpness, were bared as he took a step closer to Skipp and Vinnie, who stood their ground, despite the rising tension in the room.

"I’ve said all I need to say," Alaric’s voice was thick with scorn. "Stone made his choice, and he’s where he belongs. You two... foolish children... You had no place in his life. You were nothing but distractions."

Vinnie’s eyes narrowed, her anger simmering beneath the surface. "You’re lying," she spat, her voice tight with fury. "Stone wouldn’t have chosen to stay with you willingly. You’ve forced him into this, twisted him into something he’s not."

Alaric’s laugh was dark and rich with malice. "You have no idea what you’re talking about. He came back because he understood the consequences. He made the right decision. A decision that you two could never comprehend."

Vinnie’s breath caught, her mind racing. "What are you saying?"

Skipp stepped forward, his fists clenched, ready to fight if necessary. "What happened to him? How could he just leave like that, without even telling us?"

Alaric’s gaze turned cold, his posture shifting slightly as he prepared to deliver the truth. "Stone left because he knew staying with you would put both of you in more danger than you could ever imagine. I gave him a choice, either return to the mansion with me... Or I would come back and take him by force. But make no mistake, if he had stayed with you, there would have been no saving him, no escaping what we would have done. Me and my wife, Valeria, would’ve come for him, and anyone who stood in our way would have been slaughtered."

Vinnie’s heart raced, her mind grappling with the weight of Alaric’s words. Skipp, too, seemed to falter, his face pale as the implications sank in.

Alaric continued, his voice softening slightly, as if relishing the revelation. "Stone left to protect you both, even if it meant his own misery. He understood that his presence was the greatest danger to you. And yet, you still think that he is a victim here? How laughable."

Vinnie’s chest tightened, and she fought the sting of tears that threatened to rise. Skipp’s expression shifted, the anger in his eyes replaced by something far more profound. But before either of them could respond, a sudden, sharp voice broke through the tension.

"You’re wrong."

The voice was unmistakable, Stone’s sister, Arville, stepped into the room, her eyes blazing with defiance. She stood between them and Alaric, her body tense, her posture a stark contrast to the cold, controlled nature of their father. Arville’s expression was filled with a mixture of anger and sorrow as she turned to face her father.

"Stone left to protect them," Arville said, her voice unwavering, "And you-" she turned to Skipp and Vinnie, her gaze softening for a moment. "You never understood why. But you deserve to know the truth. You deserve to know what he did for you."

Alaric’s lips curled into a tight, disapproving frown. "And what is that supposed to mean, Arville?"

Arville’s eyes flashed with a fierceness that was unmistakably her brother’s. "He’s still human, Father. He still cares. You think you’ve broken him, but you haven’t. He chose to leave because he couldn’t let you destroy them."

Skipp and Vinnie exchanged a look, the pieces of the puzzle beginning to fall into place. The weight of Arville’s words struck them both at once, Stone wasn’t lost, he wasn’t fully consumed by the darkness of his lineage. The part of him that had stayed with them, that had cared for them, was still there. It had always been there.

Alaric’s gaze darkened, his patience thinning. "You speak of humanity as if it means anything in this world. Stone’s decision was necessary. If you only knew what it means to be one of us, you would understand why he made the right choice. His humanity is a weakness, a flaw that I will not tolerate in my bloodline."

Vinnie stepped forward, her voice trembling with both anger and something else, an understanding that had been slowly settling over her. "You don’t get it, do you? You think you are the only ones who know what it means to make hard choices, to protect the ones we love? Stone didn’t leave us because he didn’t care... He left because he DID care!"

Skipp’s voice broke in, softer but no less fierce. "That’s why he left us, he didn’t want us to die because of him... He knew the dangers... He understood the risks better than anyone, and he still chose to protect us by leaving..."

Arville’s gaze softened further, a gentle but determined expression crossing her features. "You see now, Stone’s humanity never left him. No matter what happened, it never vanished. His love for you both, his willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice, is proof of that."

Skipp swallowed hard; his throat tight with emotion. "But... He’s been a vampire all this time, hasn’t he?"

The question hung in the air like a heavy fog, and Arville nodded solemnly. "Yes, he has been. But the truth is, even as a vampire, he’s still Stone. He’s still the brother I love, the friend you both care about. It wasn’t the blood that changed him, it was the choices he made... And he made those choices for you."

The room grew eerily silent. Skipp and Vinnie stood, processing the information they’d just been handed. Stone wasn’t some cold, soulless creature, of course he wasn’t. He was still the person they had known, the person they had loved. His decision to leave, to protect them from the monstrous force that had been his family, had been an act of true humanity.

Alaric’s voice, low and threatening, broke the silence. "Enough of this foolishness! You’ve learned enough! Now, if you don’t step aside, I’ll make you regret it..."

But before either Skipp or Vinnie could react, Arville stepped forward, her body tense, a sudden determination in her eyes. "No! I won’t let you hurt them, not anymore!"

Her words were a declaration, a line drawn in the sand. For the first time, there was something fierce in her, something stronger than even Alaric’s presence. The room seemed to shift with that energy, as if the balance had shifted. Alaric’s eyes flashed with irritation, but even he seemed to recognize the shift.

"You think you can stop me!?" he sneered, his voice growing darker.

Arville’s response was simple, but it carried a weight behind it. "I’m not going to stop you; I’m going to destroy everything you’ve built. And that includes you."

Chapter Text

The stone corridors of the Blackwood mansion seemed to stretch on endlessly as Skipp and Vinnie ran, their footsteps echoing with urgency. Arville had stayed behind to hold off Alaric, but they knew there was no time to waste. If they didn’t reach Stone now, it could be too late. Every step they took felt like an eternity, their hearts racing with the dread that lingered in the back of their minds.

The door to Stone’s chamber loomed ahead, its heavy wood dark and foreboding. Skipp’s breath came in quick, shallow bursts, but he didn’t stop, didn’t hesitate. He reached for the door handle, his hand trembling as he pushed it open with all the force he could muster.

Inside, the room was dimly lit, heavy drapes blocking out any trace of daylight. Stone sat in the far corner, his back turned, his figure almost ghostly in the low light. He was still, so still, like a statue. The tension in the air was suffocating. Skipp’s chest tightened at the sight of him, his heart clenched with a mixture of fear, desperation, and the hope that somehow, just maybe, the Stone they knew was still inside.

"Stone!" Skipp called out, his voice trembling as he stepped into the room, his arms reaching out instinctively. "Stone, it’s me, Skipp! Please, we can fix this, we can—"

But before he could reach him, Stone’s head snapped to the side, his eyes cold and empty. There was nothing in them. No recognition, no warmth. Just a chilling, vacant emptiness.

"No," Stone rasped, his voice like gravel, the sound devoid of any emotion. "Stay away."

Skipp’s heart shattered at the words, but he didn’t stop. He moved closer, desperate to bridge the distance between them. "Stone, please! We’re not leaving you, not like this!"

With a force Skipp wasn’t expecting, Stone pushed him away, his hand striking out with a speed that was unnatural. Skipp stumbled back, pain flashing across his chest as his body hit the cold floor.

Vinnie rushed forward, her eyes wide with shock and fury. "What the hell is going on with you, Stone!?" she yelled, her voice sharp and full of pain. "Why are you doing this? Why are you pushing us away?!"

Skipp scrambled to his feet, his heart pounding in his ears as he reached for Vinnie, his voice strained. "Vinnie, please, don’t—!"

But it was too late. Vinnie was already standing tall, glaring at Stone with all the defiance she could muster. "You don’t get to do this, Stone!" she shouted, her words filled with disbelief. "We’ve been through so much together, and you think you can just turn your back on us like this? What the hell happened to you?!"

Skipp's stomach twisted in knots. This wasn’t the Stone they knew, the Stone who had always been so kind, so protective. This... This was something else, something far darker.

"Vinnie, stop!" Skipp begged, but his voice broke under the weight of his desperation. "Please, don’t yell at him. It’s not his fault!"

But Vinnie, her eyes brimming with unshed tears, wouldn’t stop. She stepped closer to Stone, her chest heaving with anger. "Then what the hell is?!" she demanded, her fists clenched at her sides. "What happened to you, Stone? What’s controlling you?"

Just then, the door to the chamber creaked open, and a figure stepped inside, her laughter cutting through the tension like a knife.

"How amusing," Valeria’s voice was cold and venomous, as she slowly entered the room, her red eyes gleaming with dark satisfaction. "I see my son’s little friends are still trying to get through to him. How... Touching..."

Skipp’s blood ran cold at the sight of her. Valeria was just as imposing as her husband, her very presence suffocating and domineering. And Stone was still frozen in that same, lifeless state.

"N-No...!" Skipp whispered, his voice barely audible. "No, this can’t be happening!"

Valeria’s laugh was almost too much to bear. "Oh, but it is... You see, my dear boy," she said, turning to Stone, her voice dripping with mock affection, "This is his punishment. He will kill one of his friends in cold blood. It’s the only way he will truly understand his place; under our control."

Skipp’s stomach twisted into a tight knot. He looked at Stone, desperately searching for any sign of the person he had known, the Stone who had fought to protect them, the Stone who had cared.

But there was nothing. Only a hollow shell of the person they had once known.

"Stone," Vinnie pleaded, her voice breaking. "Stone, please, fight it! We’re here for you!"

For a moment, it seemed as though Stone might respond. A flicker of something, a glimmer of humanity, perhaps passed over his face. But it was gone in an instant, snuffed out by the cold, inescapable control that gripped him.

Valeria stepped forward; her smile cruel as she eyed the scene. "It’s far too late for him to fight now. He’s been fed the elixirs for too long, you see. His will is no longer his own. He belongs to us now. To me. And soon, you will learn that there is nothing you can do to save him."

Skipp’s heart broke, and his voice cracked as he reached out toward Stone once more. "Stone, please," he whispered, "We can’t lose you like this... I love yo-!"

But Stone’s eyes flashed with something far more terrifying than Skipp had ever seen. He took a step forward, and his gaze was like a blade, cold and unforgiving. Without warning, he lunged toward Skipp, his hand grabbing him by the throat, lifting him off the ground with ease.

"Stone!" Vinnie cried out, her voice shrill with panic.

Skipp struggled to breathe, his hands clawing at Stone’s iron grip. The eyes that stared at him were no longer familiar, no trace of the Stone he had known remained. Just a hollow, empty shell, completely under his parents’ control.

And then, with one final, monstrous motion, Stone opened his mouth, revealing his fangs, and leaned in closer to Skipp’s throat.

This was it. This was the moment when the boy they had once known, their friend, would no longer exist.

Chapter Text

Vinnie’s breath was ragged, her heart pounding in her chest as she watched helplessly. She had been so close to Stone; so close to reaching him. But now, with Skipp’s life hanging in the balance, she could do nothing but watch as Stone’s grip on Skipp tightened. The faint sound of a sickening hiss echoed in the room as Stone’s fangs sank into Skipp’s throat, his body jerking in response to the pull of life being drained from him.

"NO!" Vinnie screamed; her voice hoarse with pain. She tried to rush forward, to do anything, but a cold hand grabbed her wrist, yanking her back.

Valeria’s cruel laugh filled the room, sending chills down Vinnie’s spine. "You think you can save him?" Valeria’s voice was laced with mockery. "This is his fate now. His soul is mine to control."

Vinnie fought against Valeria’s grip, but the woman was too strong, too resolute. "Stone!" she cried out again, her voice breaking. "Stop! Don’t do this! You’re better than this!"

But it was too late. Skipp’s body went limp, his blood flowing freely as Stone drank from him, the life draining out of his friend. Stone’s face remained cold, his expression devoid of emotion, until...

Skipp's body, barely hanging on, did what it could to remind him of who he was. With what little strength he had left, his lips parted, his breath shallow and ragged as he whispered the words that would shatter Stone’s world.

"I-I love y-you, S-Stone..."

The words hit like a thunderclap, reverberating through Stone’s heart, but they were too late. Skipp’s body went completely still, cold, lifeless.

For a long moment, Stone stood frozen, his grip still on Skipp’s throat, not understanding what had just happened. His eyes moved down to Skipp, to the body that had once been warm and alive, now pale, drained, and almost unrecognizable.

And then it hit him.

No... What have I done?

His entire body trembled as he stared at the boy, his lover who had given everything for him, who had loved him unconditionally. And now he was gone. All because of him.

"No... NO!" Stone shouted, his voice cracking with raw emotion, the weight of his actions crushing him. He staggered backward, looking down at Skipp, his mind struggling to make sense of the blood on his hands. "Skipp, please... Wake up... I didn’t mean to—"

But there was no response. Skipp remained motionless, deathly cold.

Vinnie’s voice broke through the fog of his thoughts. "Skipp! SKIPP!" She cried out desperately, but Valeria’s grip on her was too strong. She could only watch, her chest heaving with helplessness, as Stone fell to his knees beside Skipp's body, tears streaking down his face. "Please, please... Skipp... Don’t leave me..."

Valeria stood at the door, her arms crossed, a cruel smile playing at the corners of her lips as she watched the scene unfold before her. "Oh, how tragic," she said coldly, her voice full of mock sympathy. "It seems my son is finally learning the consequences of his actions~"

Stone could hardly hear her words. All he could focus on was Skipp’s lifeless form, the warmth that had once filled him now replaced by an empty void. He leaned over, his hand trembling as he cupped Skipp’s face, as though hoping that his touch might somehow bring him back. But there was nothing. No warmth. No life.

Then something shifted.

A flicker. A spark.

Skipp’s words echoed in Stone’s mind, each syllable a dagger to his heart. "I love you..."

It was the blood. Skipp’s blood still lingered in his veins, a potent reminder of the bond between them. It was as if Skipp’s final words, his confession of love had pierced through the fog of control that had held him so tightly.

For the first time in what felt like an eternity, Stone felt... Human.

"N-No!" he cried, as his grip on Skipp’s body tightened, panic rising in his chest. "No, no, no!"

He had killed him. Skipp was dead because of him. And now, he couldn’t fix it. He couldn’t bring him back.

Vinnie’s sobs echoed in the room, but Stone couldn’t bear to look at her, couldn’t bear to face anyone after what he had done. His thoughts were a whirlwind, his emotions completely out of control. And yet, in that instant, something inside him broke free. The last remnants of humanity that had never truly disappeared.

In a violent burst of rage, Stone rose to his feet, his eyes flashing with a newfound fury. His body was filled with power, and he turned toward his mother, the woman who had kept him enslaved for so long.

Valeria barely had time to react. With a roar, Stone lunged forward, his strength no longer that of the controlled creature he had been under his parents’ influence. This was him. This was the Stone who had fought for what he believed in, the one who had loved.

His fist connected with Valeria’s face, the force of the blow sending her crashing into the wall.

She shrieked in fury, her face twisted with rage as she slowly stood. "You think you can defy me?!" she snarled.

But Stone was beyond caring now. He was free.

With a snarl, he struck again, this time knocking her to the floor. Her grip on Vinnie loosened, and Vinnie wasted no time, rushing to Skipp’s side, her hands shaking as she touched his cold, lifeless form.

"Skipp... O-Oh god, please... Skipp..." She whispered through her tears, trying to hold on to hope, despite the overwhelming grief threatening to consume her.

Stone stood tall, breathing heavily, his body tense as he turned toward his mother. His voice, when it came, was filled with raw emotion. "I won’t let you hurt anyone else, not ever again."

Valeria, seething with anger, stood slowly, her eyes blazing with fury. "You think you can stop me!? You’re NOTHING without me, Stone!"

But Stone had already made his decision. He would never again be controlled, not by his parents, not by anyone. Not when the life of the person he loved most was on the line.

And with that, he lunged forward once more, ready to end the nightmare once and for all.

Chapter Text

The battle that unfolded between Valeria and Stone was nothing short of ferocious. The air around them crackled with an otherworldly tension as the two fought, clawing at each other with all the hatred and sorrow that had been building for years.

Stone’s eyes burned with a mixture of fury and desperation, his once-controlled body now thrumming with power as he unleashed it against the very woman who had kept him enslaved for so long. The air was thick with the scent of blood, both fresh and old, and the sounds of snarls and vicious growls echoed in the chamber. Valeria, though battered, was far from weakened. Her cold, calculating nature was a dangerous force, her movements swift and cruel.

With a sharp hiss, Valeria lunged forward, her fangs bared, sinking into Stone’s neck. The agony was immediate, raw, sharp, and searing. But Stone refused to let it stop him. With a growl, he shoved her off, blood dripping down his skin as he struck her across the face with an open palm, sending her stumbling back.

"You were NEVER my mother!" Stone howled, his voice shaking with the weight of his grief. "All I ever wanted was to be normal! To be free! To be with the ones I loved! And you and Alaric took that from me! FROM ARVILLE!"

Valeria smirked, wiping the blood from her mouth as she recovered quickly, her eyes narrowed in contempt. "You and your sister are nothing without me, Stone. Nothing! You are both monsters just like your father! You think they can love you? You're a creature!"

Stone’s lips curled into a snarl, and with a scream of pure rage, he charged at her, grabbing her by the shoulders and throwing her against the stone wall with a sickening crash. The impact shook the room, and blood splattered against the cold surface of the wall, staining it a dark crimson.

She hissed in pain but quickly regained her composure, her eyes flashing with deadly malice. "You’re weak, just like your father! You think you can defeat me? I created you, Stone! You’re nothing without my blood in your veins!"

"Shut UP!" Stone bellowed, his fists clenching as he lashed out with a series of vicious blows. His strikes landed with the force of a freight train, but Valeria managed to dodge some, retaliating with biting, scratching, and clawing at him, her nails like daggers that tore through his skin.

Their bodies collided in a chaotic dance of destruction, the sound of flesh tearing and bones cracking filling the room. Stone’s blood mixed with Valeria’s, the crimson streaks painting their forms as they tore each other apart.

Valeria’s fangs sank into his shoulder once again, the burning pain flaring as her teeth sunk deep, but Stone didn’t let it faze him. With a roar, he shoved her away, his body pulsing with the energy that surged from his hatred for her. He grabbed her by the throat, lifting her from the ground with ease, his grip tightening.

"You or Alaric NEVER cared about me!" he screamed, his eyes filled with a mixture of disgust and sorrow. "You only saw me as a tool, your prized weapon! All I ever wanted was to be loved, to be human! To feel like I wasn’t a monster!"

Valeria’s eyes narrowed, her lips curling into a sneer. "You’re nothing, Stone! You’re nothing but a shadow of what you should have been!"

"You're wrong!" Stone screamed, his voice breaking as he slammed her back into the stone wall once more, the sound of bones cracking echoing in the chamber.

Stone’s fists hammered down on her, each strike a testament to the hatred and grief that had festered for so long. Every punch, every wound, was driven by the thought of Skipp, of the friend who had given everything for him, the boy who had died because of him. Stone’s fury reached its peak, his body shaking with the force of his blows, his cries of torment filling the room.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity of violence, Stone’s fists came down one last time, his knuckles covered in blood. He stood over her, panting heavily, his body bruised and battered, his eyes filled with rage and pain. Valeria, still alive but barely conscious, stared up at him with a devilish grin, her blood smeared across her face.

"Y-You think you’ve w-won?" she spat, her voice a taunting whisper. "Y-You’re just as weak as I always knew you were... Do y-you really think they’ll ever accept you, S-Stone? You’ll always be a monster in their eyes.."

Stone’s hands trembled as he looked down at her, his eyes flashing with a fury he had never known before. She and Alaric had taken everything from him. His humanity, and now, Skipp’s life. But he was done. Done being a puppet. Done being his family’s weapon.

As Stone turned his gaze to Vinnie, still holding Skipp’s lifeless body in her arms, her tears staining the ground, he spoke in a quiet, almost broken voice.

"Vinnie..." he whispered. "Cover your eyes."

Vinnie looked up, her face streaked with tears, her eyes wide with fear and confusion. "Stone..."

"Please," he pleaded, his voice thick with sorrow. "Cover your eyes."

Reluctantly, Vinnie obeyed, her hands trembling as she closed her eyes tightly, burying her face into Skipp’s still form. She couldn’t bear to watch, not after everything that had happened.

Stone turned back to Valeria, his expression cold, hard, and full of finality. His heart ached, but there was no other choice. Not after everything. Not after what he had lost.

With one final, gut-wrenching cry, Stone lunged at his mother, his fangs bared. The sound of bones cracking, of flesh tearing, was a brutal symphony in the air.

When it was over, Valeria lay motionless, her body broken beyond recognition. Stone stood over her, chest heaving, his eyes still burning with an indescribable pain. His mother’s twisted, mocking grin had finally faded, and the room was silent except for the sound of his heavy breathing.

He turned back to Vinnie, who had finally opened her eyes, her face pale as she stared at him, unsure of what to say or do.

Stone’s heart shattered again, but he stayed silent. There was no more he could say. Not now.