Archive of Our Own ^beta

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“You are No.65” that is what these sick scientists are calling me now. I was just a number to them, nothing more than a lab rat. I was only 12, a young girl of lowly birth. Orphaned just a year ago. No one knew I was a vampire, see I have a unique ability. I can manipulate my aura and I hid that I was in fact a vampire because the church would most definitely kill me if they found out. But I got too confident and somehow I was discovered and brought to this lad deep under ground.

Instead of being killed I was subjected to something far worse than death. Everyday was worse than the last. Being strapped down and having things injected into my body. The blood, there was always so much of it. I was thrown in a cold dark cell with a flimsy mattress and a thin sheet. I was all alone for what felt like the longest time. But when I turned 13 the scientist brought a boy into the cell next to me. What I noticed first about him was his blue eyes and his raven black hair. He was frail but there was something about him that drew me in. Maybe it was just because I hadn't seen anyone else other than the scientists for a year. A whole year of being alone and being tortured. Then there he was, they called him no.69 but that's not what I wanted to call him and I definitely didn't want him to call me no.65 it just didn't feel right. I felt like I had to know the real him, not the stupid number that only defined that we were only lab rats and not kids. So I tried to talk to him.

“Hi… I know I'm not supposed to do this but my real name is Andromeda but you can call me Annie for short.” I said through the bars.

“Annie… Hunn… . You can just call me Vee” he said with a shrug.

“I'm sorry you got dragged down here. I've been here for a year. I would say welcome but this place really sucks but all I can say is that if you just let them do what they need to do they won't bother you more than they have to.” I said, trying to sound reassuring.

“Thanks I guess, how can you be so upbeat when you have been here for a year?” Vee questioned leaning closer to the bars sharing our cells grabbing the bar with one hand.

“I try to pretend I'm somewhere else. I read a lot of books, that's all I have really. Books keep me sane.” Inches closer myself. We were only inches apart. I could smell him, he smelled of amber and dirt but I didn't mind it. I got a clearer view of his blue eyes. So beautiful, more beautiful than any of the pictures in the books I would read. I could stare at them forever.

“I love reading and it keeps my mind at bay as well. Got any recommendations.” Tilting his head looking intently into my bright green eyes. Making my cheeks flush red.

“Look for me by moon light, it's a vampire story. It's so unrealistic but I still love it. Nothing like me at all. I'm nothing like the vampire in that book. But I still love reading it over and over again.” I said with a giggle trying to not sound embarrassed.

“You're a vampire. What are you even doing here, the church would have most definitely killed you by now.” He moved back a bit always for the bars.

“Trust me I wont bite, I've never even tasted blood directly from the source. I also wouldn't want to do it if the other person didn't want it.” Trying to make Vee feel more comfortable with me. Reaching my hand out to his before he fully pulled away.

He flinched but stopped moving away. He took a deep breath and relaxed. Looking at me again. I waited as the air stilled. But somehow I felt calm for the first time in a long time. I didn't feel lonely anymore. I wasn't alone, Vee was here with me. We would get through this together. I held on tighter, wrapping my fingers around his. He also wrapped his fingers around mine and we stayed like that for a long time just staring at each other holding hands through the bars.

“Let's be friends, hmmm…” I broke the silence.

“Friends… hunn? Ok we can be friends”. He responded with a grin on his cute but also handsome face.

From that day on we would be there for each other. Leasing to each other's screams and holding hands through the bars at night. The days blended together. Vee and I are trying not to lose our minds. Checking in with each other every night. Somehow we made it through each day still alive. Before we knew it was a year later and I was 14 and Vee was 13. That's when everything changed. My lunar cycle started and the scientists were all over me. I heard murmurs about conception and being fertile. Something felt off, like something bad was going to happen to me. Then that faithful day came and changed Vee and I's relationship forever. Never to be the same again.

They threw us into a cell together and made us strip. We were so scared and confused. What was going on? Why were we naked and in a cage together? Then we heard the scientist come in and instructed us on what to do. It mortified us as we looked at each other then back at the scientist. This can't be happening, there's no way this could happen. It was wrong so messed up. They wanted Vee to impregnate me. We were just kids. This was so wrong. This was about mixing the blue moon's kin with a full vampire. But why now why us? This was all so wrong. But we couldn't stop it. There was nothing we could do but succumb to this debauchery.

In those moments we would just stare into each other's eyes. Checking in with one another. The first time I got pregnant I miscarried. It was rough but those evil bastards at least let Vee and I stay in the same cell together. So he was there with me for the two after that as well. Then the summer after I turned 15 I was pregnant again and it stuck. The scientists were ecstatic. They treated me like a delicate flower while Vee was still subjected to the cure experiments. But they still kept us together. I hated seeing what they were doing to him. His eyes were changing from their pail blue to a bright sapphire blue. It honestly captivated me. I knew it was due to the experiments but I still loved them. Not only that, I was starting to realize that I also loved Vee. Maybe it was all of the hormones but being with him made me feel safe and even if our life was a life of torture and experiments. We had each other and even though he looked so torn he held his head high. Taking whatever the doctors did to him. He seemed fearless but I knew he was scared for himself but also for me and our unborn child.

“How's the baby today Annie? your starting to show more” Vee kneeling before me as I sat in a chair in our cell. He placed a hand on my stomach feeling it. He was always so attentive with me and was also very protective. It was honestly endearing. I loved the way he doubted on me. In this world where there was nothing but pain there was one sliver of happiness and it was our little family that was being made.

“The little bean is doing great. I'm really feeling the morning sickness though. But besides that I'm doing fine. Mostly worried about you Vee” placing my hand on his cheek rubbing it softly. We had grown more affectionate towards each. The only way to stay sane in this hell hole. We were just kids that were forced into the role of adults. We had to grow up so fast.

When I 5 mouths along the experiments got worse and Vee would come back every time exhausted and torn. It hurt my heart so much it wasn't fair i was scared, so fucking scared. What would happen when Elodie was born? Yes, we found out the baby is a girl and we named her Elodie. Even though Vee was exhausted he was so excited to find out we were having a little girl. Somehow with everything happening to us he still held his head high. His strength always amazed me.

At this point Vee and I had known each other for two years. Vee being 14 and I being 15. Somehow we still were alive. It was getting cold so I assumed winter was here. If I had known what was to come I would have held on to Vee so much tighter the last time I saw him. But I had no idea that we would be separated. That morning was a slow one; the doctors didn't take Vee till later in the afternoon. So we spent most of the morning snuggled up on the bed reading books together. Feeling Elodie kick and move in my tummy. We would laugh and giggle every time she moved.

“Shes a feisty one isn't she. I would feel her kick all day if I could.” Vee was rubbing my belly talking to Elodie.

“Well try being the one carrying her. She's been kicking my bladder over and over again. I feel like I'm getting beat up from the inside.” I said with a giggle playing with Vee's hair, it had gotten so long. The soft black hair twirled in my fingers.

“I wonder what she's going to look like. Is she going to look like you or me or even both of us? I bet she will be just as beautiful as you Annie” Vee turned up to look at me. His bright blue eyes melted my soul. I wish I could stay like this forever but this was the last time for a long time that we would get to be like this.

With that the afternoon came and they took Vee to the lab and I was there in our shared cell all alone. Not too long after Vee left, maybe an hour or so I heard an explosion the whole facility shook. I held on to the bars of the cell and anchored myself in place. Placing a hand over my swollen belly trying to protect Elodie. Then the power went out and it was pitch dark till the emergency lights went on. Lighting the room in a red glow. The door of my cell buzzed open. Then everything was still. I was in shock.

“What the hell just happened” walking closer to the door. Making my way out of the cell. I went down the corridor flowing the red light. It was quite too quiet. I slowly made my way down to a door at the end of the hall. This is the way to the lab. I took a deep breath and opened the door. There was rubble everywhere and smoke and fire all over the place. I was instantly hit with cold air. A shiver ran through me. I walked through the rubble and tried to keeps a my balance. Calling for Vee.

“VEE… . . VEE… .. VEE… where are you? ” I cried out. Treas running down my face. What the hell happened and where the hell was Vee. I was in a full panic at this point.

“VEE DAMN IT WHERE ARE YOU” I screamed now I fully believed that Vee was dead. I mean what the hell happened where is everyone and what caused all this destruction. The lab was destroyed. Then I saw a big hole in the wall. That's where the cold air was coming from. So I walked towards it. Holding on to my stomach as tight as I could.

“Aww you are a very interesting sight indeed” a voice from the hole in the wall said.

“Who's there, what do you want?” I started to back up away from the hole.

“Oh do not fear my child I do not want to hurt you I simply want to assist you” the voice came closer as I saw who was talking to me come into view. He was tall with a hat that covered his eyes. He was wearing a suit. Then he took his hat off and I swear his eyes were blue and red. Then he bowed to me, introducing himself. I was in utter shock.

“You can call me the shapeless one and I would like for you to come with me. It does seem like you're in need of assistance” he said with a steady voice. Walking closer to me. I froze, unable to move as if I was under a trance. Then everything went black.

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I woke up in a big bed in a giant room. With a silk gowned on. The bed was warm and the blankets and sheets were so soft. I felt like I was dreaming. The sun was beaming down on my face from the window. The windows were huge and ginormous. Where the hell am I and how did I get here? I slowly got up and walked over to the giant mirror on the wall. Looking at myself in it, my pregnant belly looking so big now the silk flowed over my bump. I held my tummy and started to talk to Elodie.

“Where are we little bean? This place is massive. I'm definitely not in the lab anymore.” I was staring at myself in the mirror. When I heard a knock at the door of my room.

I froze, unable to move. I didn't say anything. I was stuck. Even if this place looked inviting I certainly didn't trust it. I backed away from the door to the corner of the room. Then I heard a voice from the other side of the door.

“Hey are you awake my grandfather wanted me to check on you? May I come in?” Said the voice from the other side of the door. It sounded like a girl so I relaxed and with a timid voice.

“Yesss… I'm awake” still backed up to the corner of the room. Then the door slowly opened up and in stepped a girl about my age with black hair and golden eyes. She was beautiful.

“Why are you all the way in the back corner? I'm not going to hurt you. My name is Dominique de Sade but you can call me Domi” she said with a smile. Walking closer to me.

“My name is Andromeda” I said with a shaky voice. I stayed in the corner but let her approach me slowly. It seemed like she was trying to make me feel safe because she stopped about half way from me in the middle of the room. I was holding my belly even tighter trying to protect Elodie.

“That's a beautiful name. May I also ask how far along you are” she questioned.

“Thanks, I'm about 6 months along. She's only got 3 more months to go. Her name is Elodie”. I felt my tense body finally starting to relax. I backed away from the corner walking towards Domi. Sensing that I was not in danger at all. “Do you want to feel her kick” walking right up to the mysterious girl.

“Elodie, that's a beautiful name just like her mother.” She placed a hand over my tummy and felt my baby kick. I started to feel safe like I wasn't in any danger. Then I heard another voice, the voice of a boy from just beyond the door.

“Domi, can I come in now? I want to meet our new guest.” The boy spoke as he came into view. He had white hair and violent eyes. Seemingly the same age as Domi and I.

“Is it ok if he can come in” as she moved her hand away from my stomach. Looking at the boy in the doorway.

“Yah that's fine” I found a chair and sat in it because my body started to ache.

“My name is Noé Archiviste, it's lovely to meet you” he said as he walked closer to me.

“This is Andromeda, she's going to be staying with us for now on” Domi spoke softly.

“It's nice to meet you both but I'm still confused on how I got here in the first place.” I said with a shrug. This whole situation was all so confusing and then it hit me. Where the hell was Vee. What happened to him, where did he go, is he dead or alive? I didn't know anything. I tried to stay calm. But my whole world was spinning.

“Hey, are you ok, you look super out of it?” Noé questioned. Walking closer to me.

“Where is Vee?” I asked with panic in my voice.

“Who is Vee? You were the only one the grandfather brought here. ” Domi asked with a strange look on her face.

“He is the father of my baby. He's got bright blue eyes and raven black hair. You're telling me that he's not here. Then where the hell is he?” I was fully panicking at this point. The reality of the situation was really starting to settle in. Vee was nowhere to be found and I was in this mansion with these two strangers.

“Well you're the only one teacher brought back. But it's ok I bet he can find Vee for you if you just ask.” Noé is trying to make me feel better with his optimism. It was soothing in a way. I didn't mind it.

“Yah let's do that. I just need to know if he is alive or dead. It's honestly killing me not knowing where he is and that he's not with me.” I was scared that Vee was dead and that I would never see him again. The memories from that morning before the explosion rushed through my mind.

“You love him don't you. ” Domi tease. That made me blush my cheek and feel like they were on fire snapping me out of my mental spiral.

“I do a lot, he's my best friend, my partner.” slumping into my chair even further.

“We can be your friends Andromeda. Can we be friends?” Noé pleaded. Walking closer to me.

“Yes we can be friends. I would really like that.” I said, extending my hand out to shake on it. From then on the three of us got pretty close. I've never felt so carefree in my life. Not being locked in a cage was doing some good for me. I had never felt so free in my entire life. But everyday I would miss Vee even more with no new information on his whereabouts it was stated to chip away at me.

The mouths went on and before I knew it I was 9 months along. Spring was coming in full swing. I was so ready to give birth. My body was so sore and swollen I was going to pop any day now. Noé and Domi were always there for me making sure I had everything I needed. Then that day came. It was March 3rd, a beautiful spring day and Elodie came into this world. The labor was long and rough but in the end I had a healthy baby girl. She was beautiful. There was a hint of sadness in me when I saw her for the first time. She looked just like Vee. She had his bright blue eyes and his black hair and his pale skin. She didn't look anything like me, it was all him. It made me cry that we still didn't know what happened to him and still didn't know where he was. Domi told me her grandfather went back to the lab to look for Vee's body but he was nowhere to be found. Which means he wasn't dead at least not at the time of the explosion.

There I was a new mother at the ripe old age of 16. My birthday was just a couple of weeks after Elodie's birth. We were born the same month, hers at the beginning and mine at the end. Honestly, she was the best birthday present I could have ever asked for. I was full of emotions but Noé and Domi were here letting me know I wasn't alone anymore. I had told them what had happened to me. Not to anyone's surprise it shook them to the core. Noé was literally crying as I told him what happened to me. Domi being her strong self tried to sooth him and myself the best she could but I could see she was holding back tears too.

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As Elodie grew and time passed by, all of this became the new normal I guess. When Elodie was 2 months old I took up archery. I wanted to learn to protect the people I love. The search for Vee was still ongoing. But there was still no new information about him. I missed him everyday it was killing me but I had to keep it together for Elodie. Plus I had Noé and Domi by my side. I wasn't alone anymore. I had to keep telling myself that over and over again. Before I knew it Elodie was 6 months old. My archery skills were much more refined. I practiced to the point where my hands would bleed. It was all worth it in the end though.

“You've gotten really good with a bow, an arrow Andromeda. Like I'm kind of jealous with how good you are but in a good way.” Domi said as we shot at the targets in front of us.

“I basically come out here anytime, Elodie is asleep and practice till my hands hurt. That's the only way I'll ever get better at it.” I said as I hit the bulls eye.

“I'm impressed with your dedication. You're a strong mother and a strong warrior all the same time, and you're only 16 years old. You have been through so much, and yet you are so strong, I admire you and your strength.” Domi was basically bragging at this point making my cheeks flush as she spoke such kind encouraging words to me.

“Stop it, it's not that impressive. I just put my mind to something and somehow it works out. I've survived this long, haven't I?” I said with a shrug, grabbing another arrow and placing it in my bow. I took a deep breath, centered myself and aimed. Then I let the arrow go, hitting right in the middle of the one I had just shot prior, splitting it in half.

“Wow you really are amazing” Noé coming from behind watching me. He was clapping.

“You really should give yourself some more credit. You are quite talented, you don't have to be so humble.” Domi nudged my arm playfully.

“Sure I guess I'm pretty good then huh.” I said with a giggle. Setting my bow down. “Let's go check on Elodie. I bet she's awake now. I need to feed her anyway. She's getting so big” as I walked off towards the mansion. Domi and Noé followed behind me. We made our way to the nursery and found Elodie laying in her crib awake.

“Ahhh.. My little bean you're awake” I scooped her into my arms and held her. “Did my little bean sleep well?” Placing a kiss on her pale forehead.

“She's getting so big” Noé came to the side of me and let Elodie grab ahold of one of his fingers. She grabbed on, holding on tight. She had a big smile on her face. Looking at Noé intensely and giggling.

“Yah she's growing far too fast it's not fair” Domi coming to the other side of me. Placing a hand on my shoulder.

I felt so blessed that Elodie could grow up in a place like this instead of that terrible lab. She would never have to know the horrors that went on in that place. She will grow up with happiness and love, and no one would ever hurt her. If they ever did, I would kill them. I would protect her with my own life if I had to, I have to be everything for her, I have to make sure she can live the best life that she possibly can, but she's happy and healthy, and that's all I could ever want.

Another year had passed, I turned 17, Elodie had turned one. It was a big celebration. It was quite an event. My little bean was growing up so fast each day, started looking more and more like her father, more like Vee. I missed him so much and hoped that he was alive out there somewhere, but maybe one day we could find each other and be a happy family. But for now, I tried to focus on her, my precious, my most beautiful daughter. Her blue eyes are so bright, they could blind you like little sapphires. Her smile could warm up a whole town in the middle of winter, she was pure bliss and I wanted to protect her at all cost. She was the light of my life, the love I thought I'd never have. She was a blessing. The one thing keeping me going, even though Vee wasn't here anymore.

I spent most of my days practicing shooting my arrow and being a good mother. Doting on my lovely daughter even though my hands hurt from all the practice with the bow, but the more I practice the better I got at it. Elodie finally started to walk and talk a little bit, it was all so much so crazy, but I loved every moment of it. Watching her grow had become the best part of my life, nurturing and making sure she got everything she ever needed. She would never know the pain that I went through or her father went through, she will only know light and love. She started to call me Mama and call Noé Nono and Domi DD. It was all so very cute. Then she learned to run and keeping track of her had become a handful, but the 3 of us were on top of her at all times, each one of us either having an eye on her. She would just bolt from down the hall, or the corridors. It was adorable, but also terrifying at the same time. Keeping track of her became a full time job for the 3 of us. Eventually she learned to just stay by one of us at all times, she didn't like being alone, she had been doubted, on her whole life. And before we knew it, she was 2 years old, running and talking all over the mansion.

She really did look a lot like Vee. Seeing her made me think of him all the time, I thought of him where he was and what he was doing and if he was still alive. But as the years went on, it became less painful and I focused more on Elodie. Soon enough, she was 3 and I was 19.
Noé and I were sent off to look into the book of Vanitas. It was nice to finally get out of that place. I've been cooped up there for so long, I forgot there was an outside world that I've never really gotten a chance to explore. Too busy being a mother or being locked in a cage deep underground. I had never been on an Astromite airship before nor had Noé. Elodie was definitely enjoying the experience as well. We looked out the window watching the scenery of Europe pass by below us. We were on our way to Paris, France. That's where the book was said to be spotted.

“This is absolutely spectacular. Just enthralling” Noé peering out the window.

“It's quite a sight” I said while looking out the window myself. “Look Elodie we are high up in the sky” holding her to the window so she could look through herself.

“Mama, we are so high up. Nono look there are bribs flying over there” Elodie spoke pointing out the window.

“They are pronounced birds, little bean” Noé softly corrected her.

“Bbbbiirrddsss… . Bbbrriiddss. Birds. Look at the birds" Elodie finally managed to say.

“So smart my little bean, good job” giving her a kiss on the cheek.

We sat there by the window and watched as the sun set. Noé got up to get us some tea and food. But Noé didn't come back with food or tea; he had a woman wrapped around his arm. She looked out of it almost like she was going to pass out.

“Oh my Noé what is going on here” I said with concern in my voice.

“She almost collapsed, I caught her just as she was about to fall.” Noé sat her down at the table with Elodie and I. “Are you ok ma'am, what is your name?” as I moved over to make more room for her to sit.

“She said her name is Amelia” Noé looked very concerned.

“Are you all right you don't look too good, Noé go fetch us some tea please.” Setting Elodie in her stroller to better assess the situation at hand.

“I'm ok I just feel a little anemic, I'll be ok I'm actually on my way to go see my doctor” Amelia finally spoke studying herself on the side of the table.

“Well that's good at least but for now you can sit with us and have some tea it looks like you could use some rest” the mothering part of me starting to show more. Noé finally came back with the tea.

“Here you go mademoiselle, drink up please” Noé pouring the tea into the cups.

“thank you, you two are such a sweet couple” Amelia took a sip of her tea.

“We aren't a couple. Noé is like a brother to me, he is not the father of my daughter. More of an uncle.” I said firmly, taking a sip of my tea.

“Yup I'm just uncle Nono as Elodie would put it” Noé said with a laugh.

“Aww I see now. Pardon me for my assumption.” Amelia sets her tea cup down with a smile on her face.

We sat there and talked for what seemed like a couple of hours, Amelia seemed to be still feeling pretty off but more coherent. Elodie was fast asleep in her stroller. The sun finally went down all the way, making the sky a deep dark color. Then something shifted in the atmosphere. Amelia was starting to look worse than what she was looking before. She got up and ran off. Noé was quick to follow her behind though. I stared off at them, Noé running after her, knowing that I couldn't leave Elodie behind so I stayed put watching from afar. Noé followed her up the stairs when they got to the top. All the lights in the room shattered at once making everything go dark.

“NOÉ WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED” I screamed up at him from below the balcony. Waking up Elodie in the process. She began to cry, not liking whatever was going on, she could definitely pick up on the energy shift in the room.

“I DON'T KNOW AMELIA JUST STARTED TO FREAK OUT I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO” Noé yelled back. Then there was another crash, a window breaking. “DON'T COME UP HERE ANDROMEDA KEEP ELODIE SAFE PLEASE” he yelled again.

Without a second thought, I went to the back of Elodie's stroller pulling out my bow and arrow. Elodie had seemed to soothed herself as she had stopped crying. Readying my bow I aimed it at the balcony ready to fire my shot. But I stopped myself when I heard another voice. A voice I feel like I had heard before. But it sounded different deeper but oh so familiar. Could it be, no it can't but maybe it could. There was no way. Before I could register, what was going on Noé flung Amelia in the air. I was watching this form below so I didn't have the best view seeing how dark it was already. But I caught a glimpse of the man that I jumped through the window with that strangely familiar voice. He had long raven black hair just like Vee's. Could it be, no it couldn't but that voice and that hair only if I could see his eyes I would know for sure. Without a second thought I screamed.

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“VEE IS THAT YOU” I screamed with all my might. All my blood went cold. If I was wrong I would just shoot him down.

The man froze. Then he tuned and that was all the confirmation I needed. When he looked down at me I saw those very familiar blue sapphire eyes. The fire to my soul. It was him. Vee was alive and he was here. My heart jumped out of my chest.

“ANNIE!” that's all he said before turning back to Noé and Amelia. “We can talk later. I need to attend to my patient at once. Now unhand her.“ Vee spoke firmly.

I watched in awe as he pulled out a book and started to chant an incantation. Then the room filled with blue light and there was a sudden zap and Amelia fell to the floor. Noé backed up towards the stairs to try and come back to me.

“Noé come get Elodie” I demanded I needed to speak to Vee and I need to do it now. It had been nearly 3 and a half years since we were separated. I needed to be near him. I needed his warmth.

“I've got it Andromeda go to him. Go now” he ran down the stairs to stay by Elodie's side. I walked up the stairs, my heart pounding so fast I thought I might pass out.

Then there he was standing at the top of the stairs looking at me with those beautiful blue eyes I adore so much. I wanted to run up and kiss him but I held myself back. Continuing to walk slowly up the stairs. He stared at me as I walked. It's like there was electricity between the two of us. I made my way all the way up to the top where he was and we just stood there looking at each other.

“Vee is that really you. I… . . I… thought you were dead” I reached my hand to him. Before I knew it he grabbed me and pulled me into a tight hug.

“You thought I was dead. I thought you were dead. I can't believe it Annie, it's really you, you're alive.” Vee held me tight then loosened up a bit facing me head on. Our foreheads touched, he looked deeply into my eyes. Before I knew it, I was crying and I couldn't stop.

“Vee it is really you, you're here and you're alive I've missed you so much. I have so much to tell you. I've been waiting for you, your daughter has been waiting for you.” It all just spilled out. I couldn't stop the tears. He took his gloves hand and whipped my tears away. Then bring his lips to mine in a soft but passionate kiss. It was so warm and comforting. I finally felt complete. I finally felt whole again.

“Now that I've found you Annie I'm never letting you go.” He said, breaking away from the kiss. Then he held me tight. I wanted to be as close as I could to him, never letting him go. Just there holding each other for what seemed like hours, but it was only a couple of minutes, and I heard Noé speak.

“Hey love birds I know this is the first time you have seen each in 3 years but we have to get out of here the police are gonna be here any second.” Noé urged. Holding the now very awake Elodie.

“Nono who is that man with Mama” Elodie pointed up at the two of us.

“If I'm correct that would be your father but you can just call him Dada” Noé now walked up the stairs himself.

“Dada?” She questioned.

Vee looked behind me and saw Elodie then he stepped away from me going down the stairs himself. To meet Noé half way. He looked at Elodie with such awe.

“Elodie my little bean is that really you.” Vee was almost on the verge of tears but holding himself together like he always did.

“Wow Elodie is really the spitting image of you. she looks just like you just like Andromeda said” Noé coming closer to Vee.

But before we could do a proper introduction. We heard the police coming from the other side of the hall.

“Hey guys we really should get out of here before we get caught” whipping the tears that were streaming down my face. “ As much as I'd like to continue this, we have got to go”. As I ran down the stairs grabbing Vee's hand.

“Yah your right let's get out of here” Vee followed behind.

“What about Amelia we can't just leave her” Noé questioned with concern in his voice.

“She will be fine, I restored her true name” Vee turned to look at Noé.

“We have to go Noé, she will be ok.” Grabbing Noé's free hand. Now having both boys in each of my hands. We ran down the stairs into a back corridor.

Then before we knew it we were on the opposite side of the ship laying low. We stop to catch our breath. The 4 of us were sitting in a corner together. Elodie wouldn't stop staring at Vee. Like, she was transfixed on the man in front of her, the father she never knew. Her piercing blue eyes staring into his own piercing blue eyes. Seeing Elodie and Vee together was truly a wonderful sight. Even after all the years of being apart. We still felt like a family. We didn't say much to each other as we waited for the chaos to calm down a bit. Once the ship landed, we made her way off as quietly as we could without being noticed. Thankfully, we weren't. But then, as we made our way out of the station, there was a man waiting for us with red hair.

“What the hell happened up there Vanitas, where the hell did you even go and who are these people with you.” The red haired man spoke.

“Dante relax, this is Andromeda, the woman I've been looking for.” Vee walked over to the man.

“Vanitas? Why is he calling you that Vee?” I
questioned.

“Ughhh… cuz it's his name what about it.” Dante scoffs.

“Wait a minute your Vanitas. Vee and Vanitas are the same person.” Noé said with genuine shock on his face. “Thats why we are even here to look into the book of Vanitas is that what you used to help restore Amelia's true name, I didn't even know you could do that that's absolutely amazing and it just so happens to be that you're Elodie's father. The man we have been searching for for years.” Noé finally putting all the pieces together.

“Yes, I am Vanitas kin of the blue moon wielder of the book of Vanitas and I will bring salvation to all vampires” Vee said making himself stand tall.

“Oh… there you go you quake!” Dante giving Vee the stink eye.

“So it worked, what those sick doctors did to you it actually worked” I said with pain in my voice looking Vee straight in the eyes. The eyes that would always melt my heart.

“What is she talking about Vanitas?” Dante questioned. His brows furrowed.

“Lets not talk about that right now we need to get you and Elodie somewhere warm.” Vee coming towards me and hugging me close.

“Yah let's do that.” Holding Vee close trying not to cry again.

“Hey I asked you a question you quack!!” Dante questioned again.

“Dante, I'll talk to you later. I'm going to take them to a hotel to settle down. Now if you mind we will be on our way.” Vee said with an irritated voice holding me close.

“Fine but you still need to pay me later.” Dante said as he finally started to walk away.

By the time we had landed and everything had happened it was morning. Elodie was fast asleep in her stroller. We made our way to a hotel called Le Lampika. Once we settled in we finally could talk about everything that just had happened. There was so much to discuss so much to understand. Like what happened to Vee, where he had been for the past 3 years? What happened when the lab got destroyed. I had so many questions and I bet he had many himself for me as well. I was still in shock from everything. Noé was just as surprised as me. Thankfully we were all safe and uninjured.

“So tell me Vee what happened when the lab got destroyed? What happened to you, where did you go?” I said as I was holding Elodie's sleeping body in my arms sitting on the edge of the bed of our hotel room.

“Do we have to discuss this while he is here? Id preferably if we were alone.” Vee said with frustration. Standing by the desk opposite of me.

“Hey I have every right to be here Andromeda is my family and so is Elodie” Noé retorted back, eyeing the dark haired man.

“Boys please I don't want you fighting right now. I don't want you guys to wake Elodie up. This is not the time nor the place for this.” I begged the boys in front of me. Slowly rocking Elodie in my arms.

“I don't need a stranger knowing everything about me, it's none of his business.” Vee was starting to get agitated.

“He already knows everything, Vee. I told him everything, there's no reason to not trust Noé, he has a sweet heart that won't bite so please can you just calm down.” practically pleading at this point for this madness to stop.

“I do know everything that you and Andromeda have been through and it's absolutely terrible. I understand why you are so put off by me but I assure you that I've been there for Andromeda this whole time I've been here for her and have seen the pain she has gone through. She may be strong but she was sad every time there was no new information about you and it would kill her every time but she held her head high and stayed strong for Elodie.” Noé spoke with such heart it almost made me cry again but I held it together.

“I see now you have been protecting her this whole time and also been helping her look for me all this time.” Vee was finally calming down, taking a seat next to me on the bed and looking fondly down at the still sleeping Elodie. Brushing her long raven black hair out of her face.

“You can trust Noé, Vee he's a good man” looking at him with love in my eyes. Taking Vee's hand with my free one holding it tight just like we did when we were in the cells at the lab all those years ago.

“I was taken by the vampire of the blue moon Vanitas. But they told me to call them Luna. They saved me from the lab that faithful day. I wanted to go back for you but I was knocked out and I woke up in a house with Luna by my side. When I finally got myself together and went back to the wreckage but you were nowhere to be found and it broke my heart. I thought maybe you were dead but I didn't find your body anywhere so I thought maybe that the scientist took you after the lab was destroyed. So I felt like there was no hope that I would never see you again. So I learned how to use the book of Vanitas so maybe I could use it to save you from them one day. But I guess you didn't need saving. You and Elodie were safe this whole time. I'm just so happy you're alive and safe. That you were taken care of. I'm so happy we are together again.” Vee was trying not to cry. I held his hand even tighter as he spoke trying to comfort him.

“I've been safe this whole time I'm ok and I'm here with you and I'll never leave you again. I promise to be by your side for the rest of my life.” Looking deeply into Vee's piercing blue eyes.

Then Elodie started to stir in my arms, opening her little eyes and staring at Vee with such wonder. It seems like she could sense that Vee was her father. She reached up at him like she wanted him to hold her. Vee looked nervous, he had never held a child before. He had never held his daughter before. But I knew he wanted to so I silently offered her to him. He hesitated for a moment, but then took her in his arms. I watched as he held her like she was the most precious thing in the whole entire world. When he finally held her, it's like all the fear he had went away he finally relaxed holding her tight on his arms.

“She's beautiful Annie, she really does look like me. I mean look at her eyes and hair and pale skin. It kind of sucks that she doesn't look like you but she does have your face shape and your nose. But who cares, she is perfect, just perfect.” Vee was now crying tears streaming down his face as he held his daughter for the first time. I wrapped my arms around him and held him as held Elodie in his arms. I was crying too.

“This is just too sweet, I'm so happy for you guys. This is just splendid, absolutely perfect.” Noé was crying too. We all sat there in the room together crying tears of joy.

Chapter Text

After a while we all settled down. Relaxing after the events of the night prior. It was about mid afternoon. Vee and I were sitting on the ground playing with Elodie. Noé in the corner of the room reading a book. The afternoon air is blowing through the window. The sun is shining through the middle of the room. When there was a knock on the door.

“Hey you quack are you in there? I have some information for you.” The man behind the door clearly being the voice of Dante. Vee stood up and walked to the door and opened it.

“What do you have for me? Is it about any new curse bearers? Vee eyed the red head in front of him.

“No, it's about Amelia. Count Orlock has her and is looking for you guys. He's not happy about what happened on the air ship. He had to make a deal with the humans to keep it under wraps.” Dante scoffs.

“Well that's just great isn't it.” Vee huffed.

“I'm guessing we have to go now.” I said in frustration. We had just gotten here and all I wanted to do was be with my family. My now complete family. But I guess that will have to wait.

“Yah you better hurry he is pissed.” Dante started to walk out the door beckoning us to follow him.
We all got up and followed Dante.

Vee insisted on holding Elodie and she also wanted to be held by him. Vee had her on his back. She was giggling the whole walk to Count Orlock's. I couldn't help but stare at the two for them. My beautiful daughter and the boy I've loved since I was 13. Father and daughter finally, together, after 3 long years. Oh and the resemblance is uncanny. Elodie looks just like Vee. Their piercing blue eyes perfectly matched one another. The same silky soft black hair and skin pale as snow. Elodie is the spitting image of Vee. My heart leaped out of my chest and I couldn't help but stop walking and hug both of them from behind. Stopping us in our tracks for a moment.

“I love both of you so much and I'm so happy that we are all together again.” I held on tighter not wanting to ever let go. But then I realized what I had just said. I said I love you to Vee. See I never told him or I never got to tell him. My cheeks flush scarlett. I buried my face in Elodie's back.

“Mama, what are you doing?” Elodie question. Tilting her head to the side to look at me.

“I'm holding onto my most precious things, my little bean.” I muffled behind her.

“So I'm one of your most precious things then… hunn…” Vee laced his fingers into mine and held on tight to them. Pulling me closer. Melting into our group hug.

“Of course you are, both of you. You're my family, you're my everything, my whole world.” I said squeezing even tighter.

“Mama you're squishing me and Dada is all mine” Elodie protested with a Huff.

“Am I, little bean? But what about your beautiful mother?” Vee giggles.

“Mama can't have you, your mine.” Elodie squeezing Vee tighter.

“Cant we share my little bean?” Nuzzling Elodie's back with my face.

“There's enough of me to go around. But it's kinda cute to see you two fight over me.” Vee continued to giggle.

“As much as I love a good old family reunion. We have to go now.” Dante Huffs.

“Awww the three of you are so cute. I'm so happy for you guys. Domi is gonna lose her mind when she sees the three of you.” Noé was gushing at the sight in front of him.

“Ya..ya….we really should be going I guess.” I said with a sigh letting go of Vee and Elodie. But Vee squeezed my hand before letting go. Looking back at me with the soft smile I'd seen on him. Melting my heart in an instant.

We continued to walk a couple of blocks till we made it to Orlock's office. We walked through the building and made our way down a long hall. Till we were in front of a larger set of doors. Dante was in front of us three so we stood there as he knocked on the door. We waited a minute just staring at the large doors. Then the door opened and there stood two, what I assume are vampires. Then in the back of the room there was a table in the middle. There sat who I assumed was Count Orlock himself. He did not look pleased one bit which made my stomach turn. Vee was holding on to Elodie in front of him, keeping her close in a protective stance. I stepped in front of both of them as we walked into the room.

“So you must be the ones who caused all that chaos on the air ship.” Count Orlock said not looking pleased in the slightest.

“Is Amelia ok, do you have her? We didn't mean to leave her.” Noé spoke up with concern laced in his voice.

“She's in a cell, she is a curse bearer and needs to be put down.” one of the vampires with blond hair hissed.

“She is not a curse bearer any more. I restored her true name. I can assure you of that.” Vee interrupted handing Elodie to me.

“How can that be? There is just no way to do that, it's impossible.” Count Orlock questioned. Still looking quite unamused.

“With this.” Vee pulled out a book with a chain attached to it. “ This is the book of Vanitas. I am the kin of the blue vampire. Yet I am only a human.” Vee responded with a bit of a bite to it.

“The blue moon vampire. That's blasphemy, there's no way you could have done that if anything you're the one who took her true name.” Count Orlock rising from his seat. Pushing his hands into his desk hard, it felt like it shook the whole room.

“Nox, Manet! Get that book from him now!” Count Orlock ordered the two Vampires in front of us.
They both went straight towards Vee. But before they could reach him, I gave Elodie to Noé and pulled my bow from my back and aimed it and yelled.

“Back up now or I'll shoot you right through your heart.” keeping my bow up and studying myself ready to aim at any moment. Nox and Manet are still going towards Vee. I was ready to shoot, but then Noé jumped in front of me.

“Stop it all of you! We have a child here. This is not the place, nor the time for this. Can't we just talk this out instead of fighting. Plus Count Orlock I can assure that Vee did in fact restore Amelia's true name. I saw it with my own eyes on the airship.” Noé pleaded. Still standing in front of me holding Elodie. I lowered my bow and breathed.

“You're right this is not the way to deal with this situation and definitely not in front of Elodie.” I surrendered.

“You're an Archiviste aren't you?” Count Orlock spoke. Looking at Noé.

“Yes I am, what of it?” Noé turned to look at Count Orlock.

“You possess the power of memories by blood, don't you?” Count Orlock leaned forward on his desk.

“Yes I do, what does that have to do with anything?” Noé questioned

“And you must be Andromeda and little Elodie.” Your teacher sent a letter informing me of your arrival and to provide assistance while you're in Paris. I was just not expecting for us to meet this way. Please try not to cause more chaos while you're here. We will also need proof that you did in fact, cure Miss Amelia.” Count Orlock sat back in his chair. The air in the room shifted.

“Teacher sent you a letter. Then you must know we are here because of that book. That's the whole reason we are here to find the book of Vanitas.” Noé spoke firmly.

“We are going to learn everything about it, as much as we can while we are here and if you give us a chance we will prove that Vee did in fact cure Amelia and restored her true name. I saw it with my own two eyes.” I added sharply.

“Nono I'm hungry.” Elodie spoke for the first time since we arrived. Everyone in the room looked at Elodie in Noé arms.

“We will get you some food here real soon little bean.” Noé said softly.

“Ok here's what I think we should do. We will bring a curse bearer here and prove that I did cure Amelia by showing you.” Vee compromised.

“Fine, I'll give you two days to find a curse bearer. Then you will show me how your little blue book works. Till then Amelia stays locked up.” Count Orlock finishes.

Then we left, walking back to our hotel. The sun started to set, making the sky many shades of oranges, reds, yellows, and purple. Elodie, very much insistent on getting some food in her tummy and getting a bit moody. Having a small temper tantrum when we finally got outside the building. Noé and I comforted her while Vee watched very intently. Like he was learning. I sensed his eagerness to get close to Elodie but also his nervousness. I could always read what was going through Vee's mind even when he had a mask on. Guess that's what happens when you spend two years locked away with each other. He can't keep anything from me even after 3 years of being apart. When I looked back at him looking into those aquamarine eyes, he blushed, staring right at me.

“We should go get Elodie some food hunn…” Vee said, still keeping eye contact with me. Elodie looked up at Vee and reached for him. Then he picked her up, holding her close. Elodie stopped fusing immediately nuzzling close to Vee.

“Wow, she calmed down instantly. How did you even do that?” Noé questioned.

“I don't know, she seems to have taken a liking to me. I don't mind, she is my little bean after all.” Vee held Elodie close, placing a soft kiss on her forehead.

My heart melted at that moment. For ones in my life I felt true unadulterated happiness. Even with all the pain and sorrow Vee and I had gone through, we were here now all together and the way Vee is with Elodie it's just all so perfect. That only real problem in my life was that now we had to find a curse bearer and bring them back to Count Orlock to prove that Vee did cure Amelia.
But that all kinda faded away in that moment when Vee picked up Elodie and I knew as long as I had them I'd be ok.

“I love you Vee. I love the way you are with Elodie. I've missed you so much and I've wanted to say that to you for a long time. I never knew if I'd ever get to tell you how I truly feel. But now I have.” It all kind of fell out of my mouth. I froze waiting for Vee to say something.

“Annie, when I thought you were dead or still locked in a cage it tore me apart but knowing that you were somewhere safe this whole time that you were ok. I… . I… .. I.. I'm never leaving you ever again no matter what. I promise you that.” Vee walked closer to me till he was only a few inches away from my face still holding Elodie. Then he leaned down and kissed me softly.

He didn't say it back which made my heart ache but I know Vee feels the same way even if he can't say it out loud. I can just tell by his actions alone that he cares deeply for Elodie and I. So I just leaned in and kissed Vee back. Which made my heart flutter. I know one day when he's ready he will say it.

“Awe you guys are so cute. I'm telling you Domi is going to lose her damn mind. This calls for a celebration.” Noé said excitedly.

“Hey Dada is mine Mama!” Elodie whined, kicking me softly.

“Don't kick your mother, little bean.” Vee said with a giggle. Then we all laughed.

With that we walked off into the streets of Paris. Going to a late night cafe. Finally getting Elodie some food in her. Afterwards, we made our way back to the hotel. When we made it back I got Elodie ready for bed and Noé offered to read her a book before bed. Giving me a chance to talk to Vee alone. Vee somehow got on the roof from our hotel room window. I followed him up, the night air blowing through my brown hair. The night's chill air made me shiver. As I made my way up to the roof where Vee was sitting, I looked out into the city. I climbed all the way up and sat next to him. I inched closer to him that our shoulders were touching. We didn't say anything, just sat there staring.

Chapter Text

“Where do we start looking for a curse bearer?” leaning closer to Vee.

“I can get some information from Dante. That's how I've been doing this anyways. We can go see him tomorrow. For now you need your rest and so does Elodie.” Vee grabbed my hand and held it tight.

“Yah, you're right it's been a long 24 hours.” I sighed melting into Vee's touch.

“Question, when did you get into archery?” Vee pulled me into a side hug.

“When Elodie was about 2 months old, I practiced everyday till my hands bled. I guess you could say I've gotten pretty good at it. At least that's what Noé and Domi told me. They told me to stop being so humble about it.” Nuzzling my head in Vee's neck.

“I would love to see you shoot. I bet you're amazing the way you just pulled out your bow when Nox and Manet rushed towards me. I mean you had this look like you would murder them with one arrow.” Vee's voice calmed in a way that made my heart melt.

“Don't worry when we go to find a curse bearer I might just have to shoot them down.” I teased.

“Try not to shoot them, I am trying to save them. After all, I can't really do that if you shoot them with an arrow. But if the curse is too far gone we might need your bow after all.” Vee shifted our position so we faced each other looking deep into my eyes.

“I only shoot when I need to, nothing more, nothing less. I have an instinct for it, like I feel it in my bones when I need to pull my bow out. It must be my aura powers. I can sense the energies around me. The push and pull of the world formula. The shifts and changes, I can since when there is danger around. That's how I protect the people I love.” Leaning closer to Vee's face, our noses touched.

“What are you feeling now, Annie?” Vee breathed against my skin.

“You, all of you. I can hear your heart pounding. I can feel all your blood pumping in your veins. I can smell your blood from here so sweet and divine.” I whispered against Vee's lips in a daring fashion.

“Then why don't you take a bite. I don't mind.” Vee breathes heavy and deep.

“Before I do that I want you to kiss me first.” My pupils dilated. My irises, turning crimson.

Then Vee closed the gap and kissed me softly at first. His soft lips warm and supple. Filling me with fire as he deepened the kiss. Grabbing my waist and pulling me closer. I wrapped my arms around Vee's neck and laced my hands in Vee's long slick black hair. I moaned into the kiss and Vee followed after with his own moan. Slowly teasing his tongue against my lips, an invitation to be let in. I let him slip in, warm and hot our kiss deepened even more. Until I pulled away panting. Vee was trying to catch his breath too. I started to kiss his jaw making my way down to his neck taking my time.

“Annie.” Vee breathed heavy and slow.

I stopped at his jugular and left small kisses taking my time. Vee's grip got tighter around my waist and he moaned.

“Why… . are… . you… .. such… .. a… . tease… . Annie” Vee moaned.

Then without any hesitation I sunk my fangs into Vee's supple neck getting the first taste of his blood. As Vee's blood went down my throat I couldn't hold back. I bit into him harder. Vee holding me tight. Vee's grip was definitely going to leave marks. But I didn't care at all, I only cared about that sweet red flowing down my throat. So sweet, so potent so silky smooth like velvet, so divine and decadent. I couldn't get enough.

“A… nnn… eee.. iii..” Vee was lost at the sensation. I could feel it pouring off him.

I knew I had to stop myself and I wasn't going to drink him dry. So I loosened up with one final gulp I unlatched from Vee's neck with a pop. Vee huffed from the loss of heat. I licked the bite mark not leaving a single drop of blood behind. Then I kissed his neck softly nestling my face into the crook of his neck. I felt his hands losing around me but I held him closer as he went slack in my arms.

“You're amazing Annie, I hope you know that. There is really no one like you.” Vee said in a low murmur.

“And there is no one like you Vee.” I mused

“I still can't believe you're really here and alive and that Elodie… oh… . Elodie… our little girl. I can't believe she's really three but it makes me sad I wasn't there for the both of you. I missed everything. From her first word, when she took her first steps, her first birthday, the day she was born. I missed it all.” Vee buried his face in my hair stifling a cry.

“It's ok you're here now and you will get the rest of her life to make up for it. She loves you already. I have a feeling she has the same power I possess. She just knew you were her father. Everything it's going to be ok now that we are together again.” I said in a reassuring voice holding Vee tight.

“You've done an excellent job. She is so smart you've taught her well. Only three years old, and is talking and walking. She's perfect Annie.” Vee said through sniffles.

“Thank you.” That was all I could muster. Nuzzling close to Vee, holding him tight as he softly cried onto my chest. “Lets call it a night hun… . We can hold each other ok I wont leave you ok.” Rubbing circles on Vee's back.

“O… . K… .” Vee huffed.

Then we got down from the roof. Making our way back to the room. When we came into the room Noé was fast asleep next to Elodie who was also asleep. We creeped in as quietly as we could. Not like Noé would wake anyways, that man sleeps like the dead. I smiled at the two of them. Then I took Vee's hand and motioned to the other bed. We settled for the night as quietly as we could. Getting into bed Vee was behind me and wrapped his arm around my waist pulling my back close to his chest. I felt the warmth spread over me, his breath hot on my neck. I melted into it, finding sleep finally after not sleeping for 24 hours. Within minutes, sleep took me deep and low. Everything was perfect.

The next morning came fast. The light from the window shining down on my face. My eyes fluttered open to find Vee's blue eyes looking at me. He must have woken up before me. How long was he just staring at me? It made my cheeks flush red. Then my eyes trailed down to his neck and that's when I saw it. There was a mark, my mark on Vee's neck. It was a purple moon with stars around it. My heart jumped, I did that, I marked Vee. Saying he is mine and mine alone. My eyes started back up to Vee's eyes. My face is a mix of confusion and excitement.

“What is it Annie?” Vee questioned

“Your neck I think I marked you last night. You should go take a look in the mirror.” I said nervously.

“You did, I'm honored honestly. If I was going to get marked by anyone I'm happy that it was you Annie.” Vee said with a smile on his face. Then he leaned down and kissed me softly.

As much as I wanted to continue this moment I heard Elodie trying to wake Noé up. Which she was clearly struggling to do with her tiny frame. I slowly rose from bed getting out from the covers and walked over to Elodie picking her up and bringing her two Vee and I's bed, putting her between us. Noé is still fast asleep cuddling a pillow as he always did. I giggled softly to myself. Finally getting comfortable. Vee made room for the two of us to join him. Elodie immediately cuddled up to Vee's chest. I smiled at the scene in front of me.

“Good morning little bean.” Vee said cuddling closer to Elodie. Then Vee pulled me into the cuddle pile with his free hand.

“How did you sleep, Vee?” I asked as I held my little family close.

“Not much really, the nightmares have been pretty bad lately. I mostly enjoyed watching you sleep.” Vee said while making little circles on my back.

“So you were watching me the whole time?” A blush creeping across my face.

“Sorry I couldn't help it, you just looked so beautiful. So peaceful, you never looked like that back in the lab. You were always so on edge it's just nice to see you relaxed. Your whole aura has changed. It makes me happy to see you like this.” Vee gushed making me blush even harder.

“Stop it, you're gonna get me all flustered.” I said with a Huff.

“You were already flustered my love.” Vee giggled and poked my nose.

“Shut up!” I yelped, pushing Vee's hand away and looking away. He called me his love. I'm his love. I think I could die and come back to life. My face is burning with shades of reds and pinks.

“You're even prettier when you like this.” Vee said with the cheekiest smile I've ever seen. Brushing some of my hair out of my face.

“Mama I'm hungry.” Elodie protested.

“Guess that means we should get up then hun… and get this little bean some food. I'm also hungry.” I said with a Huff finally getting out of bed. But before I could fully get out of bed Vee pulled me down holding Elodie and I close getting one final morning squeeze in before we started our day.

“Mama, Dada you're squishing me.” Elodie fussed wiggling between the two of us.

“Sorry little bean. Lets go get you some food ok.” Wiggled out of Vee's embrace while giggling softly.

The three of us got ready for the day. We tried to wake up Noé, but knowing him, waking him up is almost impossible. So before we went out I wrote Noé a note and left it on his side table.

We are going down stairs to get some food.
Love. A

Then we made our way down. There was a little cafe just down the street from our hotel. We walked on the sidewalk. Elodie insisted on walking between us holding Vee and I's hands. The morning was beautiful, the streets of Paris going all over lined with buildings. We walked till we came to a pink building lined with white columns. The name in bold pink cursive letters, Angelina's. We made our way inside getting a table by the window.

“I'll get us some food, just sit here with Elodie. I know you don't like sweets so I'll get you a quiche. How does that sound?” I asked as I set down Elodie in the highchair.

“You know me so well don't you Annie. That sounds lovely.” Vee said with a warm smile on his face.

I walked over to the counter and ordered some tea, a couple of pastries, toast and fruit for Elodie and of course a quiche for Vee and a little something for Noé as well. I paid and made my way back over to the table carrying the pastries over. Handing Elodie a chocolate chip cookie which absolutely made her day. Vee smiled at Elodie while she ate her cookie, his face lined with a soft smile. I sat down handing Vee a plain croissant. I had gotten myself a chocolate eclair. We sat there enjoying our treats till our food came out. We helped Elodie eat making sure she didn't choke. Vee looked like he was enjoying his quiche. This morning was by far the best one I've ever had in my whole life. Everything just felt perfect.

“Slow down! little bean, take little bites please and drink some juice.” I softly begged Elodie

“Ok Mama.” Elodie said with her mouth full.

“Chew with your mouth closed, little bean please.” Vee instructed softly.

As we enjoyed our breakfast we heard the bell on the door ring. We looked to the door and saw it was Dante. He walked over to us and sat down at the table.

“I've got some information for you. I know you need to find a curse bearer to bring back to Count Orlock.” Dante said with a flat face.

“Dante can't you see we are in the middle of a family breakfast.” Vee said with a huff.

“Let's hear him out, we are almost done anyways.” eyeing Vee stern look on my face.

“Fine… . Fine.. Lets hear it but make it quick… hunn…” Vee conceited.

“We found a curse bearer whose name is Thomas Berneux. Apparently he has been causing a bunch of chaos all over Paris.” Dante stated.

Chapter Text

“So where do we find this Thomas Berneux Baldy? ” Vee hissed.

“I'm not bald ughhh… nevermind… . he's been all around but we know where he will be tonight.” Dante said getting up from the table.

“What time should we meet you?” I questioned, getting Elodie and ready to leave.

“Around 8pm sharp” Dante huffed.

“We will be there, we just need to figure out what to do with Elodie. She can't come with us, that would be dangerous.” I stated as we started to make our way out of Angelina's.

“We could watch her for you” a man walked behind Dante. He has grey hair and glasses.

“What, we can't watch her. What do you even know about kids anyway Johann.” Dante scoffed.

“More than you.” Johann giggled.

“I'm not letting you watch Elodie.” Vee said sternly.

“Ya I don't know about that, I don't know you very well and I just met you. What's your name? Oh yah, Johann right?” I said as I held Elodie close to me.

“Hey Vanitas, why does that child look just like you?” Johann questioned.

“Ughhh… . because she is my daughter. What about it.” Vee sighed, grabbing my free hand.

“You have a daughter. Why didn't you say anything?” Johann leaned in closer to me taking a good look at us. “And you must be Andromeda. I knew about you but not that you two had a kid together. Must have been pretty young when you had her.” Johann got a real good look at us.

“I don't go around telling everyone my personal information. I didn't feel like I needed to tell you anything when it's none of your business.” Vee hissed, stepping between Johann and I.

“The resemblance is uncanny. I mean look at you almost identical.” Johann tilted his head to get a better look.

“She does look like Vee hunn… a spitting image of him.” I giggle and finally relax. Vee is still standing in front of me and Elodie. I squeezed Vee's hand to reassure him that we were ok.

“Ughh… . You can watch her but only if you come with us and stay out of the way to keep her safe. I'll pay you double.” Vee said, sounding defeated.

“Sounds good to me, what do you say Dante?” Johann turned to face the red head.

“Fine, but you owe me big time Vanitas.” Dante huffed.

“Then we will see you tonight then at 8 o'clock sharp.” I said as we started to walk away.

“See you then Andromeda.” Johann said with a wink. Then turned to leave.

Then we made our way back to the hotel.

“Are you sure you're ok with those two watching Elodie?” Vee questioned

“Yes I'm fine with it as long as they keep her safe and far away from the fight. I could feel Johann's aura; he seems like a good man and so does Dante.” I said, trying to reassure Vee.

“If you say you can trust them. I trust you, okay.” Vee squeezed my hand tighter.

Then we made it back to the hotel and found that Noé was still sleeping. Of course he was but we needed to get ready for tonight and inform him of the plan. So I used my powers and altered the world formula and gave Noé a harmless shock.
Noé shot up and looked at me like he was going to kill me.

“Hey, you said you wouldn't do that anymore.” Noé huffed after being rudely awoken.

“You weren't waking up and I got you some tarte tatin so that will make up for the rude awakening. Also we have a plan and need you to wake up to discuss it.” I said leaning over Noé.

“You got me tarte tatin!!!!!!... All is forgiven, I love you Andromeda.” Noé stood up and pulled me into a big hug.

“Works like a charm every time.” I giggled.

I wiggled my way out of Noé grapes and gave him his tarte tatin. Which he swiftly took and began to eat. As he ate Vee and I discussed the plan with Noé.

“You know we could have just asked Domi to watch Elodie.” Noé said as he finished his tarte tatin wiping the crumbs off from his mouth.

“I know but she's busy in the capital. I don't want to bother her when she is working so hard.” I responded softly.

“Hopefully Baldy and Johann can handle Elodie. I mean she's an easy kid but still.” Vee commented.

“She will be fine with them, I know it.” I added

“Andromeda has a keen sense of knowing if someone has bad character or not so I trust her implicitly. Elodie will be fine.” Noé reassured Vee.

“So I guess that's the plan. We've got this, it's gonna be a piece of cake.” Vee grabbed my hand and squeezed it.

“Let's do this!” I said, squeezing Vee's hand back.

-Later that night-

“Ok, we got everything we need. Baby bag check, bow and arrow check, the book and Vee check.” I said passing the room making sure we had everything we needed for the night ahead of us.

“Alright.. Alright… . I think you got everything Annie, let's go, I don't want to be late.” Vee said, taking my hand.

“Yah stop worrying so much we've got this.” Noé put his hand on my shoulder.

“Mama's ready!” Elodie beamed.

“Yah let's do this.” I huffed. We made our way out of the hotel and met up with Dante and Johann.
But there was someone else with them, a woman.
She had light brown hair and green eyes. Not as green as mine but we did look very similar. She was shorter though.

“Oh my God you were right Johann, she really does look like Vanitas!” The woman said excitedly.

“See Riche I told you.” Johann affirmed.

“I mean the resemblance is uncanny.” Riche walked around Elodie and I analyzed every inch of us.

“You both said the same thing.” Dante huffed, shaking his head.

“Ok… . Ok… can we get on with this please.” Vee huffed as well.

“Ok I can take the little one. Her name is Elodie right?” Riche takes Elodie in her arms and Johann takes the baby bag.

“There is some food and diapers and also a blanket for when she gets cold. She will probably fall asleep just holding onto her, good luck.” I said as I gave Elodie a kiss on the head.

“I am trusting that you will keep Elodie safe. The only reason I'm going along with this is because Annie said she trusted you but if anything happens to my daughter, I'll end you.” Vee threatened. Then he relaxed and gave Elodie a kiss as well.

“We've got this, don't worry we will take good care of her. Now hurry.” Riche reassured Vee.

“Ok you guys follow me.” Dante beckoned.

We followed Dante through Pairs jumping on the roofs. Vee reluctantly let Noé carry him, which honestly was hilarious. He was yelping the whole way. Till we came to a stop and heard a crash down below. Then we saw what was causing all the commotion. There he was Thomas Berneux but he didn't look normal at all he looked like he was half consumed by a wolf. It was honestly terrifying but we moved forward. Making our way down to the court yard.

“Holy shit that's really Thomas Berneux? He doesn't look good at all.” I shivered

“The curse has corrupted his true name. Making him take on that form but he isn't too far gone we can still save him.” Vee reassured me.

“Let's do this then.” I replied.

With that Vee, Noé and I went down to the ground. As soon as we hit the ground the curse bearer came right at us. As soon as he rushed toward us I pulled out my bow and aimed it. I wasn't going to shoot him with any old arrow. No, I was gonna shoot him with a paralysis one. But before I could do that Noé pushed me out of the way and right as I thought I had things under control a giant rock was thrown in my direction. Barely missing it thanks to Noé.

“Are you ok you really should be on the roof being our defense not down here you're not one for hand to hand combat. Get up to the roof and cover us ok.” Noé begged.

“Fine but please keep Vee safe.” I huffed altering the old formula and jumping up to the roof. I aimed my arrow again. Then I shot hitting Thomas square on the head. Purple light exploded from the impact knocking him unconscious.

“Amazing Annie. I didn't know you could do that.” Vee gushed from below.

“Thanks love, glad you got to see what I can do.” I yelled from above.

“She's pretty amazing isn't she.” Noé said in agreement.

“Yeah she is.” Vee's eyes were sparkling at me with such love.

“Ok don't we need to get him back to Count Orlock's before he wakes up.” I questioned as I jumped down to where Noé and Vee were.

“Yeah let me stun him just once more to make sure he doesn't wake up.” Vee getting his book out. Says a quiet chant and the blue light filled the courtyard and made everything sparkle.

It was beautiful being surrounded by the power of the blue moon. I could feel it in my bones consuming me whole. I was in utter awe, the power was so strong but I loved every moment of it. Until it all faded away and was absorbed into Thomas. He still looked like a half wolf half a vampire hybrid but was deep in sleep breathing steady.

“That should do it, Noé can you help me carry him.” Vee huffed.

“Yah no problem.” Noé walked over to Vee and each one of them went on either side of Thomas and was about to pick him up when we heard a voice.

“Stop right there.” said a little boy coming from the shadows. There was a woman behind him that was covered up by a cloak. She was holding a large coffin of some kind.

“Who are you and what do you want with us?” I said getting into a defensive stance.

“We want the book of Vanitas.” The little boy said in a demanding voice.

“Over my dead body.” Vee hissed.

Chapter Text

The day I met Annie was the best and worst day of my life. I was thrown into a cell after I was sent to the church. Not like the church would notice one of the many orphans going missing. But it wasn't all bad because of this surprisingly bubbly girl with the brightest green eyes I've ever seen. Andromeda, that's what she said her name was but she told me to call her Annie.

“Annie… Hunn… . You can just call me Vee” it was the first thing I said to her. It was all so weird I mean why was she so chipper and so adorable when she's been here for a year already. She does look like she's been through it. Her long brown hair was in a messy pony tail and she had bruises and scars all over her arms and legs. She wore a dirty white night gown. But even in her disheveled state she smiled at me and she also wouldn’t stop staring at me.

Then she said she was a vampire. It scared me, then she reached for my hand and grabbed it and for some odd reason I felt like I was being wrapped in a warm blanket as soon as our hands met. She made me feel safe. It was so weird, I felt so fuzzy and warm inside so I melted into it.

“Let's be friends, humm…” she said, squeezing my hand through the bars of our cells.

“Friends… hunnn. Ok we can be friends”. And with that we became glued to each other. We would hear each other's screams and would comfort each other at night. Talking about books and what we would do if we ever left this damn lab. Even though everything hurt all the time from the experiments. Every time I would come back she would be there waiting for me with that stupid smile of hers. It always made me feel better and made me feel like I wasn't alone, that we had each other.

As time went on it just became routine. Getting experimented on and then either crying or laughing together. Then something shifted in the atmosphere when Annie turned 14. Dr. Moreau was circling Annie non stop, constantly observing her. It made both of us very suspicious and worried. I did always find it weird that Dr Moreau kept us together for so long. The reason would change Annie and I's relationship forever.

“God dammit I'm going to kill him damn it!!!!!!” I yelled.

“What are we gonna do? It's not like we can just say no. We have no choice but I don't know if I can do this.” Annie said through sobs.

“Annie.. It's gonna be ok I promise… I swear one day I will kill him. I promise you that.” I was filled with so much anger. I took Annie's hand and squeezed it tight.

The first time Annie got pregnant she miscarried only after 6 weeks. It was devastating. It tore Annie up. She was depressed and it didn't help when it happened two more times. I saw each one kill her a little more every damn time.

“I can't keep doing this, Vee it's going to kill me. I can't fucking take it anymore I'm losing my damn mind.” Annie cried into my chest as I held her close.

“You can get through this ok you're so strong Annie. I know it's hard but we can get through this.” I was starting to cry as well.

“I can't take it. I can't lose another one Vee damn it!!!! I can't.” Annie softly punches my chest.

“Shhhhh… . Annie… . Just go to sleep ok… I'm not going anywhere… just sleep… . rest please.” I whispered. Making small circles on Annie's back trying to calm her. She soon fell asleep and I held her all night. That was one of the worst nights up until that point.

Then the summer Annie turned 15 she was pregnant again. Oh and of course she lost it when Dr Moreau told her. He kept a very close eye on her. See this wasn't just any old dhampir no it wasn't just any old mixed blood. No, it was different. Something far more powerful. Dr Moreau had been trying to mix my blood with the vampire of the blue moon so he could learn to use the book of Vanitas and I happened to be the perfect test subject. So for months before all of this stuff started Dr Moreau had been preparing me by running numerous tests and poking many strange injections into me. It hurt all the damn time and I could feel the changes in my body. I started healing faster and Annie said my eyes had become a deep sapphire blue.

Luckily this pregnancy stuck and we found out that the baby was a girl. Annie had seemed to be doing better ever since finding out. Annie and I had been trying to pick out names which we never really got to do since Annie didn't want to get her hopes up but now that it had been a good 5 months and this pregnancy was still with us. Annie had been reading this book called Damsel, a book about a heroine and a dragon. The main character's name was Elodie and Annie just loved it.

“Thats her name Vee, Elodie.” Annie spoke softly while holding up said book.

“It sounds perfect. Just perfect, our little bean finally has a name. Our little Elodie.” I hummed while I held Annie's tummy.

It was these moments that kept us going. Even in a world of darkness we had each other as our own little family. But I was terrified of what would happen when Elodie was born. Like what would they do with her, would they just take her away from us, would they experiment on her, would they hurt her? It was all too much to bear alone but I remember that Annie was still right here next to me. I had a strong instinct to protect Annie and Elodie. I wouldn't let Dr Moreau hurt them. At least that's what I told myself. That I would protect them at all cost no matter what. But then it all vanished.

The morning started out slow, Dr Moreau told me that he wouldn't need me till the late afternoon. So Annie and I stayed in bed all morning talking and laughing about books and feeling Elodie kick in Annie's tummy. Whispering sweet nothings to each other.

“I wonder what she's going to look like, is she going to look like you or me or both of us?” I spoke softly looking up into Annie's beautiful emerald eyes.

“I hope she looks like you Vee because I would have a mini you.” Annie giggled, putting her hand on my cheek, rubbing it softly.

“No way I think she will look just like you.” I melted into Annie's touch.

I leaned up to Annie's face and our noses touched. I could feel her breathe against my skin. She sighed a silent invitation. So I close the gap and capture Annie's lips. It was soft and awkward but warm in a way that made me want to stay like this forever. If I had known that would be the last time I saw Annie for a long time I would have held on just a little longer before leaving her there that day.

I was taken to the lab and strapped down in a chair but there was something different about this whole set up. I felt uneasy about everything. I mean it's not like I don't go through this everyday anyways but still something felt really off. It made me anxious, making my stomach curl in on itself.

“Aahhhh… . Yessss… today is the day… oh… . Yesss… . . It's… time… I can't wait for you to see what I have planned for you No.69.” Dr Moreau cackled maniacally.

“What are you planning on doing to me?” I said with a huff wiggling in the chair I was strapped to.

“Ohhh… . this.. Is… . the… . day…..No.69… .I will be completing your transformation today… . . Don't worry it won't kill you at least I don't think it will… . Hahahahah… .” Dr Moreau giggled like a little girl clapping his hands together.

I was now fully in protest about this when he said I could die. But there was nothing I could do. All I could do was just let it happen and hope for the best. So I thought of Annie and little Elodie still growing in Annie's tummy. I thought of our kiss that we shared that morning. The warmth of Annie's lips on my. It was the only thing keeping me sane. As Dr Moreau started the procedure then the whole thing just exploded, shaking the whole damn lab. I was knocked out cold. I thought I must have died.

I woke up in a small old house. The sunlight was coming through the window to the left of me hitting me in the eyes. I blinked while taking a look around. I was very confused about where I was and what had happened. Then I heard someone come into the room. I stayed still facing the window. It was snowing. I hadn't seen snow since I was very small. I just focused on the snow falling outside till the person that came into the room was right behind me.

“Are you awake little one?” The figure behind me spoke softly. I didn't say anything. I was so scared I had to think of a strategy to get out of this situation. But I didn't know what to do. I didn't know where I was and didn't have anything to defend myself.

Then I felt a cold hand on my shoulder and I flinched and jumped up on the bed and backed away from the figure. I finally got a look of the person that had walked in. They had long silver hair and bright blue eyes just like mine. They were really tall too.

“Who are you and what do you want with me and also where are we?” The questions just spilled out of me in a fit of panic.

“Don't worry little one I'm not going to hurt you. I did save you from that dreadful man, didn't I.” The mysterious person spoke.

“You saved me? I don't remember how I got here, I don't know what's going on.” My head was spinning trying to process what was happening.

“I am the Vampire of the blue moon Vanitas but you can just call me Luna. I saved you from that lab where they were using my blood to try and make Vampires. It didn't sit right with me so I went there and destroyed the lab and I found you and took you out of there.” Luna said, trying to explain what was happening.

“What you destroyed the lab. No… No.. No… where's Annie?” I was really starting to lose it.

“Whos Annie you were the only child there?” Luna said with a confused look on their face.

“We have to go back and get her, we have to damn it.” I said with panic in my voice.

“Ok… ok.. ok… we can go back but you still have to rest. You hit your head really hard and it still needs to heal. But as soon as you have recovered we can go together.” Luna stepped closer to me and held out their hand for me.

My head did hurt really bad but I was kind of ignoring it due to my panicked state. I felt my body give out and I fell down but Luna caught me. I must have passed out again. I woke up in the same room and Luna was still next to me.

“You passed out again. How are you feeling?” Luna said in a soft voice.

“My head hurts a little bit, I'm feeling a lot better.” I mumbled.

“Do you feel up to going back to the lab to look for your friend?” Luna questioned.

“Yah, I think I'll be good to go. Let's do this.” I said as I pulled myself up and got out of bed. It was cold as I put my bare feet on the ground.

Luna fetched me some shoes and a jacket. I got myself ready. I still didn't really trust Luna fully but they did save me and hadn't tried to hurt me at all. If anything they were being super helpful. They took me back to the lab. It was a complete wreck. There was rubble everywhere and it was still smoking even after all the fire was put out. It smelled of burnt rubber and chemicals. I walked in through the large hole in the wall of the lab. Walking carefully trying not to trip while Luna followed behind me. I made it the whole way and made my way to the door on the other side of the lab, the one Annie or I would walk to almost everyday to get to the lab from our shared cell. I went down the hall making my way to our shared cell. Calling for Annie as I went down further.

“ANNIE… . ANNIE… . . WHERE ARE YOU… . ARE YOU STILL HERE?..... ANNIE… !!!!!” I yelled out as I made it to the other door.

I opened it and walked into the dark room shrouded in a red light from the emergency lights. Our cell door was open and Annie was nowhere to be found. I collapsed in the middle of our shared cell and cried. Luna came up from behind me and put a cold hand on my shoulder and squeezed it.

“I'm guessing she's not here anymore.” Luna said, pulling me into a hug. I wanted to pull away but I couldn't care anymore. What was the damn point of anything if Annie wasn't here with me to live it. So I let Luna hold me closer as I cried into their chest.

After that we went back to the house and I tried to keep going. I wanted to die. I felt like there was no point in living anymore even if I was free from that hell hole. I didn't know what happened to Annie if she was dead or if Dr Moreau took her with him when the lab got destroyed. Death sounded better than the other option. It was killing me slowly. Luna tried to be there for me. Over time I started to trust them. They taught me how to use the book of Vanitas, marking me in the process. It was like a big blue spider web on my right wrist. As time went on I got better at using the book of Vanitas.

Weeks turned to months which turned to years. About two years after the lab was destroyed. Things were going well I guess. Not the best but not terrible. I wasn't being tortured and experimented on anymore and I could feel myself getting stronger everyday. I was still grieving. Annie thought I felt like I would never move on from her. The thought of her being tortured haunted my dreams every night. It made it hard to sleep so I would stay up studying the book of Vanitas learning everything I could about it.

Then if anything else could get worse Luna started showing signs of being a curse bearer. I had finally found some who treated me like a human and loved me like a son. So much so I started calling Luna father which they didn't seem to mind at all. When I was 17 it went all downhill and Luna's curse fully took over. I tried to restore their true name but it didn't work. It seemed that the curse was far too gone to be saved so I had to do something I never thought I would have to. I had to kill Luna, the person that saved me and took me in and cared for me for all these years, leaving me all alone again. It killed me when I finally had to do it.

After that I just left, going north to Paris. Leaving everything behind there was nothing left for me there anymore anyways. My heart had grown quite cold after everything that had happened. But I had a mission to save vampires and bring them salvation, whatever that means. I made my way to Paris and got myself settled. I would wander the streets at night on the look out for curse bearers. Which I was having no luck doing. Till I stumbled upon a group of dhampirs. Their names were Dante, Johann, and Richie. They seemed to deal with information which is exactly what I needed. So I started doing business with them and I finally found some curse bearers to cure.

I was still in deep shit though my nightmares about Annie consumed me whole. I couldn't sleep at all. As time went on I felt like I was on autopilot. Hiding behind a cocky disposition so no one would know I was in pain or that I had the worst nightmares that would keep me up almost every night. Before I knew it, I was 18 and still a shattered mess but I was curing curse bearers left and right. But it was getting more dangerous. I needed some help so I paid Dante to help me sometimes.

In late spring right after Annie would have turned 19. I had a patient, Miss Amelia Ruth. She was coming to see me and was arriving by an Astromite ship. So Dante and I decided to sneak on to the ship and cure Miss Amelia. Everything happened so fast I couldn't even think. For three and half years I thought Annie was dead or locked up in a cell somewhere. But now by some stroke of luck, Annie just happened to be on the very same ship that Amelia was on. My whole world crashed in that moment not in a bad way but in a way where all I could think was I needed to get to Annie as fast as I could but couldn't just yet I had to take care of Amelia first.

So I pulled my book out and restored Amelia's true name. Blue light filled the room then Amelia fell to the floor she was unconscious. I turned my heel and looked down at the bottom of the stairs and there she was. She looked good like she had been doing ok. Her hair finally looked clean and well kept and her eyes oh her emerald green eyes. Just breathtaking in every way. She looks so much older and more refined. She looked happy, she looked good, she looked even more beautiful then the day I met her.

She slowly walked up the stairs and held her hand out. The look in her eyes was full of disbelief and shock. Without thinking I pulled her into a tight hug. I held her for what felt like hours but it was only mere moments. We didn't have time to talk much because we needed to get out of there so we wouldn't get arrested. My head was all over the place especially when I laid my eyes on Elodie for the first time. She should be about 3 years old now and she looked just like me. My heart melted at that moment. All the pain and suffering I went through just disappeared. But we didn't have time to dwell.

So we went to the opposite side of the ship leaving Amelia behind knowing I would probably have to deal with that later. But that was future me's problem. Right now the only thing I cared about was Annie and Elodie. We laid low and quietly got off the ship thankfully unnoticed. We made our way to a hotel and Annie and I could finally catch up. I did have a problem with her very handsome friend. It kinda pissed me off and made me really jealous. So I lashed out, making the air in the room thick. But Annie begged me to calm down as she explained everything to me about how Noé was there for her and Elodie and that she was ok and has been safe this whole time.

I finally calmed down, taking a seat next to Annie looking at my sleeping daughter in her arms. She looked so peaceful and just perfect. That's all I could think when I looked at her, just perfect. There was a strong urge to protect Elodie. My perfect little bean. I started to cry when Annie finally handed Elodie to me. Holding her for the first time changed me. She wasn't just in my memories anymore; she was right here, not in her mothers tummy anymore. It made my heart feel full in a way I thought it never would honestly.

Not long after we had an emotional reunion there was a knock on the door and it was Dante and he did not look happy one bit. Telling us that we were in some deep shit for the stunt on the air ship. He told us that Count Orlock was pissed. So we had to go deal with that. On the way there I was holding Elodie on my back and she was giggling and before I could really register what was happening Annie had her arms around the both of us. Holding us closer to her. I moved one of my hands from Elodie and wrapped my hand around Annie's pulling her in closer squishing Elodie between the two of us. It was the warmest embrace I've ever felt in my whole life. It was like all the pain faded away in that instant. But we had to get going so Annie let go but I pulled her back just once more and held on tight.

Then we finally made it to Count Orlock's office.
It was basically a negotiation and it almost got violent. Annie pulled out her bow and arrow from her back and aimed it at Nox and Manet when they lunged towards me. The look in her eyes was full of a raging fire. It made my body warm all over my breathing hitched at the action before me. But before Annie could shoot Noé stepped between the three of them with Elodie in his arms. What an idiot is what I thought, snapping me out of my flustered state. But everything cooled down after that and I made the decision to just find a curse bearer and bring them here and just show Count Orlock that I can cure a curse bearer.

With that settled we made our way back to the hotel. Elodie was fussing because she was hungry and tired so I picked her up and she calmed down instantly. The way Annie looked at me in that moment made my heart melt. Then she said those three words that I thought I would never hear. I love you, she said it like it was the most natural thing in the world. But like the idiot I am being emotionally stunted I didn't say it back. I couldn't. Not yet, this was all still so fresh. I wanted to but I didn't feel like I deserved Annie's love. I felt unworthy of it.

When we made it back to the hotel Noé offered to put Elodie to bed so Annie and I could talk alone. We went up on the roof, Annie sat right next to me. We didn't say anything for a while, just staring out at the city. Then we started to talk about everything and nothing. I asked her when she learned how to shoot and she asked me how to find a curse bearer. Then things heated up and somehow we were facing each other, our noses were touching and our breath was heavy. I wanted her to feed on me. I wanted her to bite me, mark me and make me hers. It was a strange feeling flooding all my senses.

So I said it ‘bite me’ but of course she wanted a kiss before she finally got a taste of my blood. See, she never got the chance to drink from me directly so this would be the first time she has drank my blood from the vein and I wanted her to so badly. So I kissed her softly at first then it turned hungry and desperate. I held on to her waist so tight I thought I would leave marks on her. Then she moved from my swollen kissed lips down to my neck kissing it lightly all the way down till she found the perfect spot between my shoulder and ear.

There were so many emotions flowing through me at that moment. The moments before she sank her fangs into me. All the loneliness, all of the sleepless nights, the nightmares it all came crashing down. I didn't deserve Annie, no I didn't deserve Andromeda. But in this moment with her holding onto me pulling me closer to her. Her face buried in the crock of my neck kissing me softly. I melted into her touch. Holding on to her waist as tight as I could trying to anchor myself.

Then she bites down, sinking her fangs into my skin making all my worries and insecurities fade away. It hurt for the first couple of seconds then I was hit with a wave of euphoria. Her venom pumping into my system, making hot waves of pleasure over my whole body. I moaned her name softly. My whole body was on fire. I could feel her gulp down my blood, the hum of her moaning against my neck. It was all so much and not enough at the same time. I was starting to get dizzy. Then she unlatched herself from my neck with a quiet pop licking the rest of the blood off of the bite mark. Making me sigh at the loss of heat. But Annie just held me as I collapsed against her chest. I could hear her heart beat so fast so was mine.

We went to bed after that and I didn't sleep much. I just stared at her the whole night. She looked peaceful and beautiful. She never looked like this when we were back at the lab. I did sleep a little bit but was woken up by another nightmare about Annie being tortured. But when I woke up, Annie's face was the first thing I saw even in the dark. I knew it was her sleeping silently. I just listened to her breathe softly. It made me feel safe and warm. I didn't go back to sleep, I just watched her the rest of the night till morning came.

When she woke up to me staring at her I felt no shame. I just smiled at her and asked if she slept well. But the look on her face was a mix of confusion and shock as she looked at me then her eyes moved to my neck. She had apparently marked me the night before. It was weird but I didn't hate it. If anything I really liked it being claimed by her. I couldn't help but gloat about it. Then I leaned closer to Annie's face and kissed her softly.

Then we heard Elodie trying to wake Noé up so Annie got up and picked her up and brought her over to our bed. Elodie snuggled between us and Annie got comfortable again. We laid there for a little bit until Elodie started complaining about being hungry. So reluctantly Annie got up to get ready but before she could fully get up I pulled her down by her arm and I pulled her and Elodie close till Elodie started to wiggle between us in frustration.

We finally all got up and headed to a cafe to get some breakfast. Annie left a note for Noé. She did say he sleeps like the dead. So we left him in the hotel room. We made our way to a little cafe called Angelina's. We sat down and Annie went to get some food for us. Everything about this felt domestic, just a young couple and their daughter out for a family breakfast. We looked so normal it was nice. Elodie was a giggling mess with bits of chocolate chip cookie on her face and Annie enjoying her chocolate eclair. It was just all so perfect. I didn't deserve this but I couldn't help myself but enjoy it.

Until Baldy had to come and ruin everything. Not really thought he just had some information on a curse bearer. Good thing we were almost done with breakfast. As we made our way back to the hotel Johann joined Dante. He offered to watch Elodie while we went on the search for Thomas Berneux. I was not ok with this of course but Annie said it was ok so I reluctantly agreed to it.

We went back to the hotel. Noé was still asleep and in the most hilarious fashion Annie zapped him awake. Which Noé did not look pleased about until Annie pulled out some tarte tatin and gave it to him which he gladly accepted. After that it was mostly preparations for the evening. I finally got to look into a mirror and saw Annie's mark. It was a purple moon with stars around it on the left of my neck. It was pretty and I placed my hand on it admiring it. Out of all the things in the world I never thought I'd want something so much until I had it. A reminder of our bond, a reminder of us.