TW: Power tripping,  Narcissism,  Abuse.

There's more scarier than monsters... people; just like how bears are preferred more than men.

”People aren't capable of change if it's the path they opt to walk,  there's no amount of healing that could purify a soiled conscience. ”

The atmosphere was rather awkward and rather... terrifying for Anthony and Aegir who are sitting face to face in a cafè table. It's not about them staring glances at each other then shy away; afraid that they would eventually catch sight of each other's staring. The presence that concerns them and sends shivers down to their spines is the person sitting in-between, Mr. So, whose face was scowling with bared teeth almost like he's a rabid dog... early in the morning.

They said that, "Mornings should start with a smile" but Mr. So is a clear non believer of that.

The cafè was spacious that day, there's not many people sitting by the tables but there's also a reasonable queue by the cash register; ordering coffee for takeout. Most of them were looking over their phones, some were yawning as they grabbed their individual cups.

Anthony never expected that Mr. So would call him while he's still making breakfast. They were having a peaceful morning but peace is never an option to his agent, he should've known.

His agent is now in front of his laptop; checking Anthony's manuscript that's almost done. Anthony was getting nervous, his hands started to sweat because he doesn't know if Mr. So is frowning because it's bad or because it's passable and he couldn't think of another insult as 'criticism'.

With a sigh, Anthony lay hold of his cafe latte; taking a few sips. He's quite thankful that he brought Aegir with him, at least he got beautiful scenery rather than suffering over a living nightmare.

Anthony already made peace with himself that indeed he amicably perceives Aegir as attractive. But he's still not sure what he's feeling because he knows he's not gay but Aegir seems like a special case.

Setting his eyes to the silver ring on his ring finger, Anthony's cheeks burned for the nth time but it's not only his cheeks that were not spared by the heat but also his tongue as the hot scalding liquid seared on it.

Anthony recoiled and winced, putting down the cup of coffee on the table on a whim, he cursed, gaping his mouth for cold air to pass through.

"Careless idiot, " he whispered to himself, hand on his forehead in dismay.

If Mr. So is not around nor Aegir he would slap himself or shout in frustration.

Aegir, on the other hand and the reason for Anthony's predicament was busy stuffing his mouth with the bacon pancake they ordered. For an outsider, they could conclude that he's just an average glutton but the truth is Aegir was just trying to distract himself from gawking at his master.

After reading those blasted books, he couldn't stop now but to see everything Anthony does to him with meaning.

Aegir was trying his best not to think about it but he caught his master's gaze leering at him a while ago and he saw him warmly smiling while doing it. And that's exactly how the protagonist of the book he read does to his lover.

His fear of the other person sitting amidst them was even dissipating whenever he thought of his master. Surely, the big and glaring man was ferocious; Aegir could tell his master's agent would occasionally throw glances at him and he was aware his thoughts were nothing but malice but Anthony's presence made him feel at ease. Anthony could just beat this man's smelly ass if he'd want to. His master is strong just like that protagonist in that book.

'Shut it, self! ' he berated himself for having thoughts comparing the book's character to his master, his ears twitching in response.

Though Anthony would surely be better than that man in the books.

Normally, Anthony would see himself as average looking but Aegir would fail to agree. What's so average about someone who sports a man bun so well, a well defined jaw, and those almond orbs the color of gold? For Aegir, there's absolutely nothing.

He knows he's screwed but strangely there's nothing antagonizing about it.

Aegir was here for it again, his traitorous gaze finding his master again. His cheeks were as betraying as his eyes; coating his skin with the tint of pink as light as his head as of this moment.

Aegir didn't notice that he put enough food on his mouth, eventually he choked. He coughed numerous times as panic seared through him.

He could hear Mr.So snickering as if he's happy that it happened. Anthony was quick on his feet to drop his coffee, stood up from his seat and went to rub Aegir's back. His face were pale; eyes full of worry.

"Hey, are you okay? " Anthony anxiously bugged down Aegir for answer, his hands were still gently stroking Aegir's back; the other hand was placed on Aegir's shoulder.

Aegir was still coughing, trying his best to expel the bits of food that caused it. When he felt that he's now okay, Anthony hurriedly took his handkerchief from his jean's pocket and wiped Aegir's lips.

And favorably, Aegir won't protest about it, he just lets his master do whatever he wants. They were oblivious to the other person sitting at their table; nose flaring and forehead creased.

Mr. So's mood started to worsen with each passing second. Anthony usually paid attention to him whenever he checked his manuscript. The kid will act timid and wag his tail at his bidding because he holds the power to approve his work.

His hands started to scroll faster on Anthony's file. He was trying to find faults so he could instill the same fear to Anthony again. The truth is, he lied about the kid's first book having low sales, it was average but he never gave his writer half of his shares. Anthony was easy to manipulate with the right threats.

Mr. So's face glowered, the way he handled the laptop's mouse turned aggressive with the hard clicks he's making. Beads of perspiration created a rain shower on his forehead. He couldn't believe that there's no more fault he could say to Anthony's new book. It was well written and how the young man executed the foreshadowing and twists were commendable. The readers could also sympathize with the villain because he had a reason.

But Mr. So's pride wouldn't let him say good things to his writers. Once they enter, it's their fate to be under him...like a slave.

Anthony could even choose to find another agent but with the conditioned behavior he instilled on him, he will always think he's a second rate even though he's a diamond in the rough. They will never feel their best more than the one who accepted them.

With another scowl, Mr. So desperately thought about the words he'll say. He hit the table using both of his hands; creating a bang, startling both Aegir and Anthony who were now casually talking to each other as if Mr. So is nothing but dead air.

Anthony turned mute, the fear Mr. So wanted to see on his face appeared once again. Mr. So secretly smirked thinking that his effects were still there. But the narcissistic agent never found any trace of agitation from Anthony's companion, instead, the female looking man was shooting daggers in his direction. The once rounded pupils resembled that of a tiger ready to pounce on its prey. Mr. So almost jumped from his seat when Aegir took the fork near his plate and harshly stabbed the remaining pancake he didn't finish while looking at him intensely.

Mr.  So is already getting on Aegir's nerves.

He froze, averting his gaze. He cleared his throat to speak, "Y-You need to finish everything by next week. You need to send your book details to the layout artist for the cover. But ah, the marketing, " Mr. So was stuttering because he knew he's still being watched. "The marketing should solely be up to you. So you need to update your socials again. Remember, you only sold 200 books before. " Mr. So was smirking, using the 'failed' sales again to put pressure on the young man whose face resembled a blank sheet.

Another way to pull Anthony's nose is to make him believe that he's alone and he wouldn't manage to create something because he's not popular.

Mr. So thought he'd win again because he saw Anthony's hands shaking and his brows crumpled. But he was proven wrong when Anthony's companion began to cheer for Anthony.

With a sweet smile etched on his lips, Aegir reached for Anthony's hands and firmly grasped it. Aegir's tail moved from left to right calmly, but of course with the use of the magical lotion; only Anthony could see it.

"Don't worry! I'll help you! We'll create some super duper cute layouts! I'll draw. Then we'll drag Vin to help! We're in this together! " Aegir trailed, Mr. So could tell how blindingly bright his aura was while saying this; eyes sparkling making his features a lot more feminine.

In an instant, Anthony's expression began to change much to Mr. So's chagrin. Anthony nodded and smiled back. He placed his hand on Aegir's head and messed with his hair.

Aegir giggled when Anthony warmly replied, "Thank you, ofcourse how can I forget about you? " Anthony then pinched Aegir's cherub cheeks softly.

And for another time since he's here, Mr. So felt like an inanimate object.

Mr.  So entire body started to flare in anger,  his fists in a tight knuckles.  He hated how Anthony's mood turned to better when he wanted his writer to focus on him just like before.

He sent some loathful looks to Anthony's companion.  It's because of that damned guy that his grasp around Anthony's neck loosened.  Mr. So began to think again,  to put the guy to his rightful place. 

Observing them,  he tried to find bullets to shoot them with. His lips shut in a frown.  His eyes wandered around their hands and it dawned on him when he saw silver rings each wore around their ring fingers.  Their actions started to make sense and if it's indeed what's up... they're doing a huge sin and a taboo.  Detestable and disgusting.

How can he not think about it? The trash started to feel better about himself when a puny and blind homosexual boasted his worth.

Mr. So's facial muscles started to relax,  a triumphant grin pasted on his oversized and greasy lips.  He cleared his throat to get his writer's attention.  He leaned over,  his hand on his jaw with a false kind smile visible on his lips.

Anthony could feel it in his bones.  Whenever Mr. So smiled like that,  it's not because he was happy with him but because he's delighted with his scheme. Anthony started to brace himself,  he could take any insults this man could hit him with.  He's used to this.

Anthony's throat ran dry to the unwanted anticipation.  Mr. So nodded his head before speaking,  ”Great! It seems you now slowly evolved from being trash.  Guess we should thank your new boy toy over here? I never thought you'd walk this path.  Loneliness can affect anyone,  I see! “ Mr.  So laughed,  pointing his index finger to Aegir who went rigid by his words. 

A dead silence crept into the place but Mr.  So never planned to stop his verbal assault.  ”You got quite the nice catch! He looks like a woman.  I bet you're having a good time with this fine young man.  But as your senior,  I care for you.  You should keep this as a secret,  this is scandalous! “ Venom laced his words,  he threw a maniacal gape towards Aegir who immediately felt a chill down his spine.

The look Mr. So gave him feels like he's starting to undress him.  He felt utterly uncomfortable.  He felt like he couldn't breathe,  his chest heavy not just from how perverted Mr. So's stares at him but the gravity of his words.  Fear began to eat Aegir whole. The terrifying realization that whatever he's feeling for his master right now can potentially bring Anthony shame.  He knew how ridicule especially inflicted by society that should have stood with their people felt like. 

It was antagonizing and horrible.  Marking you as sinful for being true to yourself.  Making it your fault as just existing as it is.

They only see their own truth as absolute because it's what their ego entails. If a beast is horrible for being feral,  a man endowed with not but their own self-serving intentions is much vicious. Even bears or even lions will feel ashamed for how agonizingly piercing a man's words could be and far worse when they attack with not but their hands.

Aegir's nails dug on the table; creating a small scratch.  He could feel his eyes stung,  threatening to water.  Mr.  So chuckled and turned his head towards Aegir.  He was pleased with the reactions he's getting.  His hand reached Aegir's chin;  raising it.  Aegir couldn't help but to shudder in utter repulsion to the touch.

“Hmm? You're aware that you're just his passing fancy,  eh? He'll leave you soon after he gets to enjoy it.  You'll stain his reputation so offer your body till it lasts. ” The words cut through Aegir's heart.  The thought of Anthony choosing to leave him behind triggered a wave of panic.  His chest became heavy and his breathing became hitched.  A drop of tear escaped his eye.

Does he really need to offer his body so that Anthony will not get tired of him?

Mr. So thought he was winning the war,  unmindful of Anthony who he's sure he's affecting.  But all of his confidence was erased in an instant when his eyes lingered to his writer who was now barely recognizable.  The air was heavy as Anthony's face showed a placid expression corrupted by an uncontrolled rage.  His eyes were blazing with seeping fury;  squinted and directly hitting his agent. Mr.  So's smirk faltered in an instant,  replaced with a creeping feeling of nervousness.

In his hand was a fork on which he's gripping tightly. There's something about Anthony's stares and aura that makes him look like a predator or an opportunist waiting for the right time to trap their victims. Tension filled the air as Anthony stood up,  it felt like there's a  dark shadow looming over his back.  With a loud thud,  the fork found its way a few centimeters away from Mr.  So's hand resting on the table.  It nearly grazed his flesh.  A terrified shriek broke free from his throat;  he nearly fell from his seat and wet his pants.

The people inside the cafè started to mumble,  but none of them dared to stop the commotion.  They even support the guy's anger after all they heard was the disrespectful mouth of the older male.

Anthony's voice sounded so intimidating when he spoke,  something Mr.  So never expected,  “That's foul,  Mr.  So.  I let all your insults slide,  did I not?  You heard nothing from me.  ” Anthony's cold stares didn't leave his agent who just gulped in return.  Mr.  So tried to retaliate but words abandoned his mouth.

”You're crossing the line.  The moment your rambling mouth chose to target Aegir,  you're courting the end of my patience.  I endured all your words but you've become too much.  You don't have the right to say such words to Aegir nor you have the power to brand my relationship with him as scandalous.  The only dishonorable here is you! May I remind you,  outside work;  we're not related.  I don't need your unsolicited opinions toward my personal life.  Know your boundaries or I'll consider dissecting your dirty mouth with this fortunate fork. ” Anthony's voice thundered,  almost like burning acid melting everything it touches.  He raised the fork up high,  Mr.  So screamed and closed his eyes in fear.

Anthony snickered, pity and amusement danced on his golden orbs. ”Goodbye, Mr.  So.  I'll make sure to do my job,  so please kindly do yours.  “He gently dragged Aegir's hand away to the scene.  They weren't speaking anything and only Aegir's occasional whimpers and hiccups could be heard.

When they're already outside the cafè,  Anthony faces Aegir,  now his expression soft and comforting.  He's wiping away Aegir's tears with his thumb.  ”Don't worry,  he's wrong.  You're not a passing fancy,  okay?  Nor I'll leave you like he said,“ Anthony tried to assure Aegir with his words. 

“But he said that I'll stain your reputation! ” Another tear followed.  Anthony shook his head in disapproval,  his hand holding Aegir's cheek. 

”I don't need that if it means losing you.  ” Anthony knew that his words already crossed the limits of his rationality but protecting Aegir and ensuring that he stays by his side is more important than bearing the weights of the world.

Aegir embraced him without saying anything.  Anthony fished his phone from his pockets and sent someone a message.  His psychologist before when he was still depressed. He needs his help to further sort his feelings and make peace with it.

To: Dr.  Gregory Galloway

From: Sender

Hello Doctor! I hope you're doing great.  I would like to schedule an appointment with you if that's fine? Thank you!

He hit send. 

-

The atmosphere was eerily quiet.  Two people,  Anthony and Aegir, were standing behind the huge swirling magic mirror leading to Artemisia's living room.  Their faces were unreadable because of the one presence they never expected to be sitting by the sofa.  They saw Saint there,  lounging by the sofa;  his eyes were busy wandering the place like a child's first time seeing the outside world.  

Anthony and Aegir looked at each other,  both confused.  ”What's Saint doing here? ” Anthony asked in a whispering voice. 

Aegir shrugged,  his brows crumpled.  He knew it! The guy realized something!  But why was Artemisia okay for Saint to be here?  Suspicious. 

After their rendezvous with the goblin Mr.  So,  Anthony asked Aegir to take a stroll with him to the mall.  They bought Aegir a new phone and some house supplies.  Artemisia called them in the middle of their shopping,  telling them that they should be in her house earlier than the call time for their next mission.  Her tone was awfully serious. That's why they made haste but they didn't expect that Saint was in the picture.

They walked towards Saint who immediately saw them.  Saint mustered a weak smile,  he's well aware why Anthony and Aegir looked at him like he's a foreign creature.  Normally,  he had no business being here but the information that he holds is crucial for them. 

Though Saint couldn't help but to still feel greatly amazed by what things he's seeing in here.  There's a lot of magical items he only saw on television.  He's trying his best not to touch them.  There's the swirling magical mirror which can teleport somebody for example.  He remembered the first time he was permitted to use it,  he was so ecstatic. 

Well at least it can distract him from the memory burned into his mind. 

Anthony sat beside him,  there's some hints on his face that he's trying to think on how to ask Saint.  He is biting his lips and continuously shaking his head.  Saint faintly laughed because he knew Anthony will still try to lie even though he's bad at lying. 

Saint tapped Anthony's shoulder.  ”Don't sweat it,  man! I already knew, “ he blurted,  sighing deeply. 

Anthony brushed his hair with his hand in distress.  Unlike him who had an inhuman lineage,  Saint is just human and him getting involved here can endanger his life. 

He saw Saint just shrugged,  getting what Anthony's hopeless states meant.  Saint knew the danger,  he's scared but deep down there's excitement;  something that will give color to his monochromatic life. 

Anthony didn't utter any word but not Aegir who pinpointed Saint with narrow eyes and lips formed into a frown.  ”I knew it! You lied to us.  How dare you! You saw us before, that's why you keep calling my master! You're fishing for information! ”  Saint's laughter echoed to the room upon hearing Aegir's accusations. 

Aegir's stares against Saint were not getting any better.  If only it's permissible to strangle a human,  he'll do it in a heartbeat. 

Saint didn't expect that Anthony's companion would be wary of him.  Although,  he is right;  he indeed was trying to get information from them for his own amusement. 

He raised both of his hands in a surrendering position.  “I am sorry,  okay? But promise,  your secrets were safe with me.  Cross my heart and hope to die! ” He swore,  even tracing a cross sign on where his heart lies. 

He heard Aegir released an irritated sound,  like he's so done with him.  Saint clasped both of his hands and apologized in a low voice,  “Sorry! “

With folded arms,  Anthony placed a grave glance on Saint who immediately smiled at him nervously.  ”You shouldn't be here! It's dangerous for you,  don't you know that? I know you're a fantasy geek but this is not for you! ” A mix of utter frustration and genuine concern laced on Anthony's voice.  Saint's eyes darted around in agitation,  not wanting to look Anthony in the eye because he is guilty.  

But Saint has other reasons why he's here,  something awfully life threatening than finding out Anthony's secret.  Just by thinking about it makes Saint tremble in sheer terror.  Anthony caught Saint's change in expression,  he could feel his gut twisted as heaviness struck in his chest.  There's something that Saint wants to confess and by his intuition;  Anthony could tell it's not anything good. 

Saint took deep breaths, closing his eyes, he pushed himself to speak, “I am here because I saw something worse than finding out about your secrets—“ Before Saint could even finish his sentence,  Artemisia,  Alucard,  and Vin entered the living room. 

Anthony's attention turned to Artemisia,  he stood from his seat and looked at her in pure confusion and worry.  “What's happening? What does Saint mean? “ Anthony fired bullets of questions to Artemisia.  His face gets more frantic in each passing seconds.  What's more concerning than their secrets? What did Saint do? 

With a nod of encouragement,  Artemisia motioned Saint to tell his story.  The tale that Saint shared sent a mixture of terror,  wrath,  and sorrow from those who were unfortunate to hear it.  They felt how dire the situation was. 

With a crumpled fist,  Alucard snarled, ”This has to stop! They're using that place to hasten their plan to capture souls. How dare those humans work with the enemy! That's why nymphs were attacked in the guise of the human government to hunt some poachers!”

Anthony was still in disbelief,  trying his best to process what he just heard until a bitter truth made him remember that it's certainly possible to happen.  Human greed is endless and they'll do everything to satisfy their desires even if it means the death of others. Still it made him speechless that the enemy was conniving with humans and people are foolish enough to trust a vampire... or perhaps they don't know that the one helping them fuel their dark desires also sees them as pawns. 

He couldn't believe that Mr. So led his son to this.  His agent is evil but Anthony never fathoms that he's far unpleasant than that.  Anthony knew it must be hard for Saint to witness all of that atrocities and for his father to be part of that scheme. 

”Did you talk with Mr.  So? ” Anthony inquired though based on how Saint moved his head,  he already knew the answer. 

And by how they encountered Mr. So in the morning,  he was nonchalant even though he was part of a crime the night before. 

”I haven't come home since yesterday.  I still couldn't face my father after he brought me to that place.  T...They were killing those people.  Those missing person reports...it was them... “ Anguish painted on Saint's complexion as he continued telling what had happened.  His hands were shaking and tears fell from his eyes. 

Saint was perplexed,  he's attempting to recover more of his memories.  He's certain that it's not just his father that was there,  there's a blurry figure of a man that he's positive that is there.  That scary looking man who caused him to fall unconscious. 

Vin was also beside Saint,  providing comfort.  He understands Saint. Vin could see in Saint's eyes how many grotesque scenes he had watched,  his pupils dilated and hands cold as if he dipped it on ice. 

Aegir, who was also rattled by what he heard,  gulped his saliva.  Aegir moved to face Artemisia and came up with a question,  “They took so many... but how?  Some are using the magic lotion to conceal their true forms? ” Artemisia nodded upon hearing the question,  her eyes were calm and level-headed trying to discern the situation. 

With that massive abduction scheme.  Artemisia realized something grim.  ”I have three theories on how this is happening.  It seems that even creatures using that magic lotion are not spared.  One,  they figured how to undo it.  Number two,  they'll continue to raise wars for casualties,  and number 3...they don't discriminate against their victims on the alleys, may it be humans or not.  The last one could be more viable because we already see human remains in their usual killing places.  “

Saint could feel like throwing up with all the information that was coming to him.  Flashes of the people's face drenched their own blood with eyes filled with nothing but despair played on his mind.  He could still hear their screams and those who were still trying to beg to be spared.  Men and even women and children paraded like objects and disposable livestocks on the mercy of the rich and powerful who chose to be deaf to their cries. 

”W-Why do they need to treat people like that? ” Saint was stuttering as he said this. 

Vin replied in an instant,  sure of his answer, “Because tormented souls radiated more energy than those who died in peace. So, we need to free them from their pain,  “ Vin replied while his eyes rested on Anthony whose expression was hard to read. 

Anthony was trying his greatest to comprehend the situation.  It's hard to accept that some people are beyond saving.  He believed that anyone could change if you prove them wrong but he realized his naivety.  He saw how the orc from their first mission finds pleasure in the desperation of others and it dawned to him that people like Mr. So are just the same;  like monsters but dressed in human skin. 

He could empathize with the victims.  They tried their utmost ability to survive even if hope is forlorn but that hope was exploited and crushed by their captors and even if they live another day; they'll be killed slowly until they begged for a swift ending. 

Anthony crumpled his fist in silent fury.  ”What must we do to save them? ”

Alucard snapped his fingers and suddenly a projected image from an LCD projector manifested on where the flat-screen television lies.  “We need to find a way to infiltrate it. ”

Saint was quick to respond,  “You need money to enter there without stirring a huge commotion to the media.  You guys need me to recommend someone from your team with the same amount of wealth. ”

”Is it Artemisia? Aegir guessed,  putting his finger on his chin;  thinking. 

Shaking his head for a no. ”It'll be suspicious if I invited someone I don't know. ” He puckered his lips to Anthony's direction. ” Him.  That ass is not broken,  he's just an idiot. ”

Subtle gasp rang in the room.  Anthony was even surprised that his name was brought up,  he pointed at himself to be sure.  “Me? I am just a writer and a student! “

Saint rolled his eyes.  “Yeah tell that to yourself,  your dad founded a company after retiring from his service in the military. Although it's thriving, there's rumors about the management being a shit.  We just need to sue your aunt for not giving it to you even if you're already eighteen. “

Anthony was skeptical with what Saint said.  He doesn't want anything to do with it since his aunt's abuse lessened to just infrequent when he let her have it. 

She still slapped him and verbally assaulted him whenever she gave him his allowances and she didn't starve him anymore just like before or kicked him away from his home. 

But what Saint told him next struck like an arrow to his mind and heart because it totally made sense.  

“You want to save others? Save your own self first. “ Saint chuckled bitterly. ”Your resolve will soon crumble if you yourself don't believe it just like how you refuse to believe fictions before because it's easier to run away than to face things head on. “

Saint sounded like a hypocrite preaching things he doesn't know how to act.  But it's better if he sees his friend move forward and help others with it. Maybe if Anthony will have courage to break free,  he'll also be motivated to be liberated from the grasps of his own father. 

Anthony was well aware that it was the truth...but he still couldn't help but to be terrified of facing his aunt and some of his shadows that's far more unfavorable than fighting enemies with the use of magic. 

He wasn't afraid of haunting apparitions and ghostly shadows that his power offers but it's ironic that his own frightened him. Those things from his past that abandoned him and threw him like garbage,  it's even a miracle that he didn't picked to be corrupted by it and turned evil himself. 

But even before he's already aware that it'll catch up with him sooner or later. 

Aegir, realizing his master's tense expression,  placed his hand above Anthony's.  ”We're just here for you,  master! ” He beamed motivately,  rubbing Anthony's fingers against his. 

”A-Alright.  Let's do it...but after we survive with our next mission later at night.”

Unbeknownst to them,  the enemy that they'll going to face was not like the orc.  It's someone who harbors great animosity against the nymphs and holds darker secrets that are yet to be revealed... 

Are there action scenes next chapter?  BIG YES *the author's nose started to bleed*