Unsure of what she had expected, but the Undead should have seen such a mundane response from Fenriz. Just like herself her parents only told her what he needed to know. Since they move around they are not entrenched within one location, though perhaps they move around a lot as a job requirement, maybe merchants. It would make sense as a merchant can move easily through borders and receive less scrutiny from the guard. While she was curious as to what the same stuff was she doubted that it was anything other than a normal reaction between. With the mention of a plan, Lixue did not think much of it as there was no point in questioning Fenriz further about as vampires are always scheming.

With a break in the answer, Lixue was still curious about many things but held onto her question as the boy seemed to be trying his best to think of anything noteworthy. Still a bit concerned about Fenriz and his family, but she did not believe that he or his family were a threat to others as who else would have brought up such a kind vampire. Caught off guard by Fenriz's mention of how his family and her would get along as she doubted she would get along with any such beings. "Why would you say that is it because of our use of magic"? Unsure as to why the boy would say that as just because they are all mages does not mean they would get along.

Gesturing to Lixue's magic as he marvelled over the frozen over landscape. " It would be careless to do such magic around others. The only reason I used such destructive spells was for training under the impression that no one else was around". As she explained a reason for his parent's not showing such magic, Fenriz turned around and approached her. Holding back her natural reaction to a possible enemy attempt to close the distance as Fenriz was a boy cursed with vampirism, not a vampire who had the appearance of a child. As they exchanged eye contact Fenriz stated that she was the only one to ask about his family. Finding such a claim to be quite odd as that would be a fairly normal route for a conversation to take if someone saw a child alone, it spoke more about the company he kept than Lixue. As the conversation focused on Lixue's family the Undead's expression darkened as it still hurt to think about. Unsure if she should share her time with her family as she was bred to hunt the very things they are. While her training and teachings were more in lines of torture and indoctrination she was better off than others who had no home or a family. Attempting to hold a smile as she thought about her past, "I suppose that is only fair".

Thinking about the best way to go about her life as she did not want to worry or scare the boy away before she understood him and his family more. " I was born in Karith to the Cao Clan, a very distinguished clan that specialized in priests and priestesses. Every member of the family is required to learn to become a priest and what priest you will become depends on your magical affinity. Due to my affinity towards the light, I was ordained to become an exorcist, disposing of anything that was a threat to the citizens. Aside from myself, there were my three older sisters Da, Xiao, Huiling and my brother Fan. There were other siblings, but the five of us were separated from them". Unsure as to the why they were separated though she did remember seeing her other siblings once, though they looked more like her parents than herself and her other siblings. "Da and Xiao were my twin older sisters. They also had an affinity to light magic, but they were rather sickly, as such they only did healing or rituals. Unlike me, they had ivory hair and ruby eyes kind of like yourself and very pretty, they had many suitors lining up to marry them unlike me". Fading away momentarily on how they always teased her about how she fought monsters and how unladylike she was. Even though it bothered her she knew that they were only joking as all of them supported each other when it mattered. Snapping back into reality and looking back to Fenriz to make sure he was still listening. " My older brother Fan was as fiery as his hair and magic, he always wanted to challenge Huiling myself as he wanted to be an exorcist instead of a war mage. Though he left to join the military once his training was done". Honestly, she was surprised that he could control his magic as he had quite the temper, no doubt he received the most punishment out of any of us as he had a strong spirit. "Last was certainly not least was my eldest sister Huiling, was an exorcist just like me and her ice magic was so clear and beautiful like her. Even though we shared similar appearances I was nothing compared to my sister. She was kind and always helped me I always… no still want to be just like her ''! Losing herself into her respect and awe of her role model, Lixue lost sight of Fenriz as Huiling seemed to be more like a goddess than an actual person as she could do no wrong in Lixue's eyes.

"Well, you guys both know a lot, too. I bet you guys would have a lot you could talk about!" Truth was Fenriz just assumed that anyone he liked, there was certainly no reason his parents wouldn't as well. Of course, he had never been presented a chance to test this theory as when he and his parents were together, they made up the bulk of his interactions with other people. But typically anyone who was willing to entertain his childish musings was a worthwhile person in his book, and Lixue had already entertained quite a bit, perhaps far more than she ever intended. A pout fell over his face, however when she lectured him about the responsibilities of using magic the way she had previously. His disappointment stemming not from being lectured, however, but the realization that he probably wasn't going to see more of Lixue's talents.

After agreeing to speak on her family she launched into a lengthy story about her past. Compared to their previous conversations, it was almost as if he was talking to a completely different person, the way she fondly reminisced. While it might have been a bit much for others his age to take in, Fenriz absorbed every word. Even in his head he was having trouble pronouncing some of her siblings names, although Fan reminded him of his own, or at least his nickname. Based on the way she described him however, that seemed to be the most they had in common. Da and Xiao, on the other hand… if they had similar features to him, he of course could only wonder if they were like him in other ways. There was certainly a lot he wanted to comment on as she spoke, but whether it was due to an uncharacteristic patience or a complete enrapturing of his attention he held off until she had finished. 

"Wow Miss Lixue your family is huge!" he remarked. Five siblings in total, although she mentioned they got separated from even more. Most curious to him however is the lack of mention about a mother or father, but that was one of the many things he planned to ask about. "Way bigger than my family. I just have the two parents, and I guess now a sister too"

Perhaps the strangest combination for siblings, a vampire and an angel. But despite their differences, and despite the fact that they didn't share a drop of blood, there were few people who meant more to him than Raziel, looking up to her much in the same way Lixue looked up to Huiling. She had discussed at great length her family, mentioning a wide variety of people, but he could tell that she held a higher affinity for Huiling than the others.

"Your sister sounds really amazing, but do you really want to be just like her?" he asked "I don't really know her but I think the sister that I met is pretty amazing, too!"

In the grand scheme of things these words probably meant very little considering they had just met, but the proud smile on Fenriz's face suggested that in his mind, his judgement on Lixue was the definitive one, and it was going to take quite a bit to change his mind.

"If I remember right…" Fen briefly mumbled to himself, using his fingers to count something in his head before he resumed his thought "You're the youngest of your brothers and sisters, right? Well, youngest of the ones you weren't separated from? I don't have as many as you do, but I'm younger than my sister, too. It must have been nice, having that many people to look out for you"

Though the quantity was different, and the very nature of their relationships were different, being the youngest was another thing they had in common. Even if one didn't count his adoptive sister, Fenriz was still the youngest of two, though he of course didn't know that.

"Why were you guys separated, anyway? For that matter, where are the ones you do know?" he looked around as if they were hiding somewhere nearby. Upon finding nothing in his cursory sweep of the area, he continued his flood of questions, only slowing down long enough to try and pronounce names as correctly as he could "Are Da and Xiao not here because they got married? How come nobody wanted to marry you?"

Although one would certainly be forgiven for taking that question as a bit mean spirited, Fenriz certainly didn't mean it in such a fashion. No, it was an earnest question from someone who's knowledge on relationships was limited, to say the very least. "I guess Fan's not here because he's doing military stuff, huh? I've seen soldiers before. They're the guys that protect everyone else, right?"

Taking one more pause, another thought seemed to form in his head "But you said exorcists fight threats too, right? Does that make you and your sister soldiers? What kind of threats did you fight?"

While continuing to speak she would stop to answer or respond to the boy's interruptions. "Five or more was fairly normal back then, I'm not sure if it still is though, also why did you not mention your sister early"? Unsure to why Fenriz had forgotten to mention his sister up until then, but perhaps the two were not on good terms as just like royalty vampiric clans are highly competitive.

As Fenriz commented on her sister the Undead felt a swell of pride in her sister as Fenriz understood the greatness of her older sister even if it was only through spoken word. Though the finish to his comment left a knot in her gut as his flattery was misguided as the Priestess was still thinking about whether or not to let him live. Looking to Fenriz with a shameful glance. "You only say that because I've been mirroring my sister's mannerisms. I'm nothing like her. She always knew what to do and never regretted anything". If only she was here now she would know what to do. Why was I the one to be brought back instead of her as she would have been the better choice?

Remaining silent as Fenriz barraged her with question after question about what her siblings. The answer was very simple as all of them were most likely dead just as she was, though Lixue hoped that at least Fan lived out his life becoming a famous general. Though she knew that her foolish hot head of a brother would go on a warpath upon hearing about his family's death no doubt getting himself killed. Looking down at the ground as Fenriz continued before giving the child the truth. "Their dead, just like I expect I don't have the decency to stay that way".

Pausing as no doubt Fenriz felt terrible about his questions, but not as terrible as Lixue was about to feel. "We, I hunt things like you and I. The only reason I've been speaking to you as I've been trying to determine if you are like myself. This is why I'm telling you that I am nothing like my sister as she would know exactly what to do without doubting herself. She would send you on your way without you even knowing that she had the intention of harming you".

Holding her hand towards the boy as light pulsed out from it. "Just go, find your family, I hope that they are as kind and respectful of life as you and I. Don't make me regret my actions anymore than I already do". Nothing has changed even now she was still a slave to her training, still willing to raise a hand and harm children on something they have no control over. Biting her lip as the light began to burn away at her palm, "Just get out of here do you want me to kill you"?!

"Oh I didn't mention her because I know where she is. Or at least, I know she isn't too far" he explained. Of course in that moment, he didn't realize why mentioning he had family nearby might not be within his or her best interest.

Although Fenriz had been completely obvious to the inner turmoil that she had been going through in regards to him, the pain on her face now was plain as day. In fact the whole mood inside the dilapidated city had seemed to change. Even the shadows seemed to notice, swaying anxiously in anticipation of the events that were about to unfold. Fenriz himself remained unusually silent as she explained herself, explained that she had been copying her beloved sister this entire time. Naturally he disagreed with her assessment. Though he didn't deny that Huiling sounded fantastic, he knew that his high opinion of Lixue had been formed by Lixue herself.

Once she explained what it was that exorcists did, specifically what their primary targets were, was the moment that the boy realized he was in trouble. This person, who he had previously believed was another person willing to entertain his childish whims, had been silently judging him the entire time. If he had said something different in this entire conversation, maybe elaborated a bit too much on one story, was it possible that he wouldn't be standing here now?

Still, he certainly wasn't out of the woods yet. Far from it in fact. Fen took a half step back as she lifted a hand his direction. A light began to form in her palm, causing Fenriz to raise a hand in blocking it out. He had seen a lot of magic in his time, even once or twice being threatened by it much like he was now. But there was something different about this spell. He could feel it, the inner vampire lashing out in his subconscious, clawing at his mind desperate to snuff out that light by any means possible. For now, however, the child remained in control, and he had a decision to make. She was giving him a chance to flee, a chance he was strongly considering taking. What stopped him was fear. Fear that as he was attempting to run, she would change her mind and decide to finish the job. He had seen what sort of power she was capable of. While he was absolutely no match for her in a fight, he wasn't certain he would be able to get away, either.

Fenriz staring down a deadly spell was confirmation enough to the shadows that Lixue was a threat. Without command from the vampire, the very shadow he cast on the still icy ground beneath them had formed into long, inky tendrils that attempted to wrap themselves around the arm that threatened him, no doubt in an attempt to direct the spell elsewhere.

"Wait, stop!" He protested. Even if the shadows were convinced she was a threat, Fenriz was not. But the more the shadows acted on their own, the more likely she was to be convinced that he was a threat. While he was focused on trying to get his shadow to obey his command, the surrounding ones began to come alive as well. Most of them had morphed into various birds, an animal that Fenriz was obviously very fond of. Others took the form of wolves, modeled after one in particular Fenriz had gotten to know. A handful of these animals had manifested, nowhere near the amount that he was capable of summoning while the circle was active, but all of them acting without input from Fenriz himself. They approached slowly, perhaps sensing the boys hesitation, but it was clear that they were set to try and protect him by any means.

Fenriz figured there was only one way to solve this situation. Convince the shadows that Lixue was not a threat.

"Miss Lixue I know you hate vampires. I know there's good reason to hate them." as he spoke his words were strained. With one hand still doing its best to block out the light from the spell, and another raised toward Lixue, he was still mentally trying to prevent the tendrils from latching on to Lixue, a task he was failing at. All the while, his inner, feral self was still trying its hardest to break free, wanting noting more than to violently crush that light "After I first became a vampire, I lost control once. An entire family died because of me. But I've learned other ways since then. I know how to feed without killing anyone, and I haven't since"

Tears were now beginning to form in his crimson eyes, due both to the situation at hand and the painful memory he had brought up. It was maybe a risky prospect, giving a person that wanted to kill him even more reason to do so. But that day, that image of the family lying mangled and bloody at his feet still haunted him. It was a grief that he would live with forever. A part of him even felt like maybe he deserved to die for what he had done. But at very least if this was where he was to meet his end, the one that would do it should at least have a tangible reason

"You said it yourself, actions and a desire to do better is the only way to improve. I don't want to be like the vampires that give us a bad reputation. I want to prove that we're not all like that"

The entire situation was almost becoming too much for the boy to bare, his legs beginning to shake. The zoo he had inadvertently summoned inched ever closer as he continued on "You have cursed mana too, right? Even if you're not a vampire like me, that gives us something in common. I wouldn't want you dead because of what you are, because I know you're a good person. And I didn't know your sister, but based on what you told me, I think she would feel the same way"

"But, if… if you think I'm a bad person, I understand. I would believe someone as smart as you would make the right call"

Despite the circumstances, the vampire managed a small grin. He had decided that Lixue was an amazing person. Not even Lixue herself was going to sway that opinion.

Feeling a dark tendril encroach on her, Lixue expelled light out from her outstretched arm eradicated the tendril that dared to even attempt at threatening her leaving minor burns across her arm. Shooting her glance up to Fenriz after his poor attempt to stop her. Glaring at the boy as her arm began to heal in front of the boy's very eyes. "Are you insane!? I'm telling you to go and you try to attack me do you have a death wish"!? Further thought and examining into Fenriz's actions showed Lixue that his actions were out of fear and lack of control as the boy's fight or flight response began to kick in. However, even if Fenriz's actions were out of fear, Lixue shame in herself would only give the boy one chance before she would expel him from the mortal plane.

Even if Fenriz's protests to her and his own, magic shadows of animals formed around him ready to strike pointlessly at the Undead as Lixue was now a perfect counter to any creature from the dark. "You ask me to stop, yet you ready your own magic!? Even if I am aware that your emotions are at the heart of it, I will not hesitate if you become my enemy! So please, Fenriz just go". Pleading at the tail end of her words as she truly did not wish to harm Fenriz. At her wits end as she had nothing more to do or say other than attacking him in hopes that he'll leave.

Focusing entirely on Fenriz as he tried to block the light from his eyes. Though she hoped that he would run, her hopes were dashed as he continued to speak. I've never had a target refuse to run before and now he's trying to appeal to me instead of attacking or running. Truly the roles had been reversed as Fenriz seemed to be the adult and Lixue the child as he did his best to show her was not a threat. However, as he mentioned how he lost control and killed a family Lixue's mind raced with the immediate action to punish Fenriz for his wrongdoings. Despite the fact that she stood before a vampire and a murder, she held back something she would have never done in the past. Lixue understood how difficult it was to suppress the hunger even she had to place a pact on herself as a last resort. The fact that he had the bravery, no character to speak the truth before her and wished to show that he was not like other undead connected with the very core of the Priestess' being as she to wished for the very same. Remaining silent as the Vampire cried. She did not know that vampires could even cry, but the proof was before her very eyes. It was no tricky as both his mind and body were reaching their limits as both his magic and Lixue's presiding over his judgment eat away at him.

Keeping an eye on the shadow bestiary that stood at Fenriz's side ready to strike. It was impressive that he was able to amass such a large amount even with the circle assisting him. While emotions were an effective source for magic their erratic natural made using it dangerous as you could easily lose control and seriously harm others and more importantly yourself.

Listening to his ending argument Fenriz made the Undead even more ashamed of herself as even with everything she did and may still do he wished no ill will or harm to her. The boy even went on to say that she was a good person knocking the metaphorical wind out of Lixue as she could not agree to such a claim after all she had done to him and others. With the mention of her Sister, Lixue did not know what she would think of her. It was their very existence was to remove the unnatural and threats from the world. Huling would do her duty even if it was her. Finding it harder and harder to face Fenriz as he did nothing, but complement and smile as he believed in her a complete stranger, even willing to give her his life to atone for his crimes.

Remaining silent as she thought over everything he had said and done. Seeing herself in the boy as just like her he wished to live his life honourably even with what they are. In the face of death, he stood firmly and recounted his errors and wished to repent going as far as to ease he would be executor's worries and faced his death with a smile. With her spell still at the ready and Fenriz's shadow creatures inching closer ready to pounce as the awaited a possible storm to overtake the calm. Seconds felt like hours as Lixue finally came to a decision. Dispersing the spell to smoke rose from the Priestess's hand as burns covered her palm. Lowing her hand while still looking away from Fenriz. "It is I who am the terrible person for doing such a thing to someone who has shown me nothing but kindness. I will not ask for forgiveness as I do not deserve it. Even though I have no right to ask anything of you, promise me that instead of living in regret of the lives you have taken do something to make their lives mean something".

By the end of it Fenriz had fallen into a silence. Whether his words had gotten to her or not was irrelevant as by this point trying to keep both the shades and his inner vampire at bay were taking up the entirety of his concentration. For a moment, he was pretty convinced that this was where it all ended. Mentally saying a goodbye to his parents and sister he squeezed his eyes shut, preparing for the worst.

But the moment never came. Instead the brilliant light that he was trying to shield his eyes from only moments ago faded away Daring to open his eyes revealed that same hand that threatened to snuff out his existence only moments ago was now covered in smoke and burns. Without the spell being pointed at his face, the violent demon ravaging in his head finally fell silent, leaving nothing behind but a dizzying headache. When the hand that charged it fell, the shadows saw this as proof enough that Fenriz was no longer in danger, returning to their original form and placement.

Make their lives mean something… He had never really thought about it that way. This entire time he had been carrying that weight of regret, figuring that the constant nightmares about that night were his punishment for his actions, and that living with them was the only way to atone. Was there however something more that he could do? It was something to think on, but in the immediate moment he had something slightly more pressing on his mind.

"M-miss Lixue, is your hand going to be okay? We should probably find a healer for you. I can see if-"

As he spoke Fenriz attempted to step toward her, but between his spinning head and shaky legs, the step wasn't to be. He fell to his knees before falling over to his side, landing roughly on his left arm before rolling onto his back.

"Oww… he groaned. Fen lingered for a moment on the ground, the icy cold feeling surprisingly surprisingly nice on his still throbbing head.The short reprieve also provided him with an opportunity to gather his thoughts. Fen pulled himself up to a seated position, though the feeling in his legs told him that for a moment at least, attempting to stand was to be a fruitless endeavor.

"You are wrong about one thing, Miss Lixue. You do deserve forgiveness, but I can't forgive because you don't have a reason to apologize to me. I've never heard of an exorcist before today but hunting things like me is your job right? It wouldn't really be fair for me to be upset because you were doing your job" as Fen spoke his speech was noticeably slower, a far cry from the normally rapid pace at which he normally spoke, though his tone remained as friendly as it always was "But I really do mean what I said earlier. I don't really know how yet, but I want to show people that not all of us vampires are monsters"

There was a time that not even he believed that. A time where he believed that all vampires were terrible, horrible creatures, himself included. But through the few people he called friends, his perception had since shifted greatly. Second only to reuniting with his parents, Fen's dream had become to improve the perception of people like him.

"I'm not sure what way I can make the lives of that family mean something. But I promise I will find a way, and whatever that is I promise I will do it. But if I promise you something, you have to promise me something, too" his facial expression shifted, doing his best to put on that adult "serious face" he had seen many times in his life "You have to promise me that you'll try to stop calling yourself bad things. I don't think you're a terrible person, and I bet everyone I know would agree with me. Your sister sounds really cool. I wish I could've gotten a chance to meet her, too. But if I talked about myself the way you do around my sister, she would be very upset with me. If your sister was anything like mine, I don't think she would be too happy with you either"

This was something he knew from experience. She was a big reason why he had any shred of self confidence to this day

"Oh" his lips curling into a childish smile. "You also have to promise to show me more cool magic, sometime!"

Fenriz rubbed his arm. It was tender for sure but he had certainly suffered worse. More than anything it was his head that was bothering him. Still he soldiered on, as there was one more thing he had to get off his chest.

"Oh, and Miss Lixue, I'm sorry about asking all those questions about your family. If I had know they were…" he trailed off, not exactly wanting to finish that sentence "And I know it's your job, but thanks for not…"

He didn't want to finish that one either.

Unbelievable even after everything I've done Fenriz is more concerned about my hand than himself. "It's nothing to concern yourself with i'm…" Witnesses Fenriz fall to his knees, then his side as his body had given out on him no doubt due to overexerting himself in their standoff. Unsure whether or not to pick Fenriz up as the boy seemed surprisingly content for someone who was laying on the freezing ground. Unsure what to do as she could not face the boy, after all, she had done, and there was no way that she could touch him as she had just threatened his life. Even if Fenriz said that she did nothing wrong it did nothing to quell her own shame for her actions.

Peeking out of the corner of her eye as she heard movement from Fenriz. He still seemed weak and unable to stand from her aggressive acts towards him. As he said how she was wrong the Priestess prepared herself for whatever Fenriz was about to say as she deserved it and much more. Though instead of lashing out of blaming her Fenriz refused to forgive her as she had done nothing wrong as it was her job. That may have been an excuse when I was alive, but I am no longer a priestess and even then. Turning her glance further away from Fenriz as his words only brought her more shame.

Thinking on her clan and how they truly operated. It was nothing like a priesthood as her clan was more concerned about its own reputation and profits than actually helping those truly in need. Even if it meant receiving punishment or even death performing her duties under her family's name proved that she was not a good person as anyone who can be swayed by fear does not deserve to be called a good person. As she thought about her past actions, Fenriz reaffirmed not only his goal but Lixue's as well. Letting out a small chuckle as Fenriz stated that he did not know how to show others that he was not a monster even though the boy had just done so. "You already have. You've shown that you are willing to put the lives of others before yourself even going so far to place your own life in the hands of a complete stranger if it meant that you could no longer threaten the lives of others. If you can convince me you can convince just about anyone". While still ashamed of her actions she turned to face Fenriz with a smile as while naive his personality and character were rarer than Lacriamium.

"Start out small, simply helping others is a good step. For me personally, I use my new talents to help instead of harm". Lixue could only offer suggestions as everyone had to find their own way, but the Undead believed wholeheartedly that Fenriz would do his very best to correct his wrongs. As Fenriz bought up a promise for her to keep her smile faded as she waited for the promise as she did not know if she could as Fenriz seemed very serious about his request. As he spoke she thought of others as Fenriz was not the first person to tell her to be less critical of herself. With the mention of how her sister would react Lixue's expression soured as the boy was right. " Very well it's a promise then I'll not speak of myself poorly and you'll do your best to be seen for the person you are and not what you are". While she herself did not think of herself as favourably as everyone else, her thoughts were still her own the Undead would just not have to voice her true feelings.

Thinking of something else Fenriz's smile returned to him as he asked for Lixue to show him more 'cool' magic. "That is a promise I will not keep, magic is not for entertainment it is a tool used for a select purpose. As I tell my student focus on the basics and build a strong foundation then branch out to more advanced practices". Letting out a airless sigh as all children and new mages were the same wanting to reach the end without even starting. " Magic is dangerous, not just not a moment ago you let your emotions take over and now you can barely sit if we truly fought no doubt you'd die from exhaustion before the fight had truly started". Completely forgetting that she was the one that caused him to do such a thing Lixue stern chastised the vampire on being more careful.

Renlenting as Fenriz rubbed his arm as she had no right to scold the boy after what she had done. Softening her expression as the fault lied with her, not Fenriz. "I apologize it was my fault for placing you in such a dire situation". Apologizing for her actions, but confused as the boy mentioned something completely different. "You don't have to apologize you did not know. Even so, it was nice to talk about them as I don't get to talk about myself very often as Undead are feared throughout the world”.

Trailing off into another sentence as the boy thanked her for not doing her job. Shaking her head as she closed in on the vampire and scooped him up cradling him in her arms. "It's not my job anymore and even then we only acted when we were requested to by either the state or benefactors’”. Holding back as the Former Priestess was about to flagellate herself once more, but held back as to keep her promise. "I only act now as we should have back then, not picking and choosing who to help based on personal gain". Looking to Fenriz as she held him in her arms. "I'm sorry to have done this to you, and I can't very well leave you in such a state… So if you are able I am willing to offer my blood as payment for my actions". Looking away as she loosened her cheongsam as she held Fenriz in one hand while holding up her cheongsam with the other just covering her chest exposing her neck and her gaes pact that peaked just over her chest. "Wh..whenever you are ready.. go ahead". Even if Fenris was a child she had never exposed herself to anyone let alone someone of the opposite sex.

Naturally it seemed a daunting task to change the reputation of vampires everywhere, especially for someone as young as him. But to have Lixue's endorsement gave him more confidence than she might ever know.

Attempting to help others was actually something Fenriz was very accustomed to. Successfully doing so however was an entirely different story. But in both his successful and unsuccessful attempts he hadn't really considered using his abilities to assist others. In fact, ever since he had gained even a semblance of control over his shadowmancy his uses of his talents had been what one might have expected of a child with his abilities. As he had already demonstrated he didn't share the same qualms as Lixue about using his powers for more… frivolous means. 

This mentality had lead him to the scolding that he was receiving now. It was his turn to divert his gaze as she lectured him. Though he certainly had to admit she was far from wrong. Despite all the improvement that Fenriz had made, this skirmish had proven that he still had a long way to go in terms of control, and his still unresponsive legs proved that he still had a long way to go in terms of endurance as well.

"Fiiiine. You're right" he groaned, dejected. When he set his mind to something Fenriz could be an extremely stubborn child, as she had no doubt seen already during their time together. But this was something she seemed adamant about, and even Fenriz had to acknowledge that she had good reason to be so. For now he would have to settle on their original terms, though that was at least something that he could be grateful for. Even if he was willing to concede to not being shown any more magic, he wasn't going to abide by people he liked putting themselves down, even if that person was themselves.

He glanced up at her curiously as she approached him, and before he knew it he was being lifted into the air, the cold, hard ground being replaced by slightly warmer arms. Other than with his sister, physical contact with others was rare for the child, and the particular closeness of this situation caused his face to turn slightly red. Still, given that his legs still refused to work he was appreciative of not having to sit on the cold ground any longer. She explained that this was no longer her job, and once more apologized for her actions, despite the fact he already told her that in his mind, she had nothing to apologize for. So naturally when she offered to supply him with some of her own blood, his first inclination was to decline. But a quick look around the city reminded him that the entire place was deserted. Even if his legs started working again, it was likely going to be a while before he could find others.

Thinking back to her words earlier, about the vampires that occasionally refused to feed, he clamped his eyes shut and bit into her neck. As he had been trained, he sunk his fangs just deep enough to puncture, and took just enough blood to stave off the feral voice in his head pleading for him to drink until there was nothing more. Almost immediately he could feel his headache subside.

"T-thanks, Miss Lixue. Though, you didn't have to" he insisted, still convinced that she had done nothing wrong. Once he could feel the strength in his legs again, he let himself down from her arms, almost slipping on the ice in the process, though managing to retain his balance. He would carefully turn back to face her before speaking once more

"I know people are scared of Undead, just like vampires, but if you ever want to talk about your family again, you can talk to me" feeling somewhat rejuvenated, he was back to his animated, rapid paced self as he spoke "I would love to hear about them. Especially your sister. If you think so highly of her than she must have done some really amazing things. I-if thats okay, that is" he ended, remembering that might be a somewhat touchy subject

He spun away from her now, eyes scanning the moonlit horizon around him. Where his adventures would take him next, he wasn't certain, although what he was going to try and do, was a bit clearer. "Miss Lixue, I have one more promise I wanna make"I promise I'm gonna practice my magic a lot, and I'm gonna get full control over it. When it happens, can I show you how good I've gotten?"

Lixue awaited Fenriz's bite, but the more she waited, the more she grew more apprehensive of allowing the boy to do so. While she herself has never been bitten by a vampire she has seen the act done on another. The act was brutal as the vampires only cared for their own satisfaction not caring for their victim as they feed. A majority of the time the vampire would break their victim's neck just to get better access to the artery. All of her thoughts on the matter began to change her opinion on the matter of allowing Fenriz to drink her blood. "Fenriz… Ah"! Feeling a sharp prick in her neck as the boy bit down on her neck surprising her more than anything. Just like Fenriz, his bite was gentle, though she was not overly fond of the suction from the Fenriz's mouth as he siphoned the blood from her artery. Is this what a kiss feels like? I've heard of the phrase a vampire's kiss is it similar to a normal kiss? Why would anyone want to do this?

Thankfully Fenriz stopped as his feeding was beginning to make her nauseous and light headed though more from the feeling than the loss of blood. "There was no one else around and I was the cause of your current state. Though I did learn that vampires can drink the blood of the undead so it was at least educational". Helping him stand with her free arm as he almost lost his balance on the ice causing Lixue to almost forget her less than ideal position. Once his balance was retained she looked at the vampire as she faced her as she held up the top half of her clothing as he prepared to speak more seemly blissfully unaware of the Priestess' predicament. "…Excuse me, but Fenriz… Please turn around while I fix my clothing". Facing her back with his bearing her porcelain like skin as she only held up the front part of her clothing. Releasing her hand allowing the front half to fall, Lixue would tie and fix her clothing to properly cover herself once again. Turning back around, "Alright it's safe to turn around, sorry for the interruption".

With her clothing attended to she listened to Fenriz's words as her blood seemed to return the vampire back to his rapid pace. Unsure as to why he classified vampires and undead as different though perhaps it was a sort of pride thing with vampires. As he brought up her family again, Lixue thought on her past for a moment as she only told him the good and only bits and parts of the bad. "Perhaps, though perhaps it is better to be left in the past. While I still love my family there are things that are best left in the past". Looking away for a moment before turning back to Fenriz, "I'm sorry for being such poor company. I should be the one looking after your concerns, not the other way around. I guess I'm not much of an adult". Letting out a defeated laugh as the Priestess could not believe how poorly she had been acting to the child, placing all on her judgments and concerns on him.

Even how poor of company Lixue was, Fenriz took it all in stride as his excitement and wonderment were unshakable. Proclaiming another promise to himself the vampire proclaimed that he would practise his magic and gain mastery over it. "Those are quite the herculean goals don't try to do too much at once or you might lose yourself halfway". Pausing to think on Fenriz's words and how best to go about how to not discourage or encourage him too much. "Don't practise for my sake practice for your own. Think of why you wanted to study magic and focus on achieving your own goals. Then one day you can show not only your mastery but what it has accomplished for you and others'“.

Fen was a little surprised she wasn't aware before. Fen had taken the blood of many races before, so he had little reason to believe that an undead would be an exception. It did however make him wonder if others, those like him, were also suitable candidates. Given the temperament of other vampires, combined with their tendency to be awake at the same hours as himself, however, he figured maybe it was best to let this one stay a mystery. Still, he had, albeit inadvertently, taught something to Lixue, who had imparted a fair amount of knowledge on him, so it made him happy.

It hadn't really occurred to him whilst being held, the state she was in. So excited was he to start chatting, he didn't realize it immediately when he was let go, either. It wasn't until she instructed him to turn around that it clicked, causing his face to turn as red as his eyes as he obeyed her request. Given the amount of time it took for her to readjust, all he could really think about was how troublesome the garment must be. Come to think of it, he had never seen anyone dressed the way Lixue was. She did mention she was from Karith. Was it possible that all people dressed this way? Maybe this was someplace he would have to visit. After all, if the people there were as smart as she was, someone was bound to be able to help him find his parents, or at least give him the knowledge to do it himself

For Fenriz, of the many, many topics he liked to discuss, his family was somewhere near the very top of that list, so long as that conversation was more about the who rather than the what. But unlike hers there was still a chance that his family was still around. To that end, despite his curiosity, he wouldn’t press her to talk about her family, although so long as they knew each other it was certainly a standing offer. While he was, somewhat uncharacteristically, understanding about her reluctance to talk about them, he was significantly less understanding about something else.

“Miss Lixue you did it again” he placed his hands on his hips, a position he had seen his mother take a number of times just before she was about to scold him about something. The sight of the child trying to mimic that of a cross adult was probably far more humorous than Fen intended, but still he continued on “You just promised me that you wouldn’t talk bad about yourself”

He closed his eyes long enough to let out a sigh, then matched her gaze once more as he continued his “lecture”

“Most people don’t tell me nearly as much neat stuff as you have, if they even talk to me at all. Or when I ask them stuff they just say things like ‘You’ll know when your older’” It hadn’t taken long for this to become one of his least favorite phrases to hear, though of course there was always good reasoning behind why he heard it “You’re one of my favorite people I’ve talked to”

If she knew the limited number of people that even gave the boy the time of day, then this wouldn’t come across as a particularly ringing endorsement, but as with most words out of his young mind he meant them with sincerity. His expression softened, diverting his eyes to her arm

“Really you’ve shown more concern for me than most adults. Nobody has just offered me their blood before. But what about you? Shouldn’t we get your arm fixed?”

It was almost as if he had entirely forgotten the event that had transpired only a moment ago. Or perhaps a broken promise was genuinely that much more upsetting than an attempt on his life. He once more shifted his gaze from her arm back to her face. Suddenly, as if he remember he was upset all over again, he turned his back to her, crossing his arms in a huff "Maybe you're right. I'll just practice and practice my magic and you don't get to see it when I'm in full control. I'm gonna help so many people and not show you"

Fenriz knew that wasn't true, and it was likely that Lixue knew too. Despite what it might seem, he really was intent on taking her words, all of the advice and guidance he had offered him to heart, and whether or not the opportunity presented itself, Lixue was likely going to want to be one of the first people he would want to brag to. Perhaps realizing this, he immediately broke the vow of silence he intended to take. He didn't turn around, although that was more out of shame at his minor temper tantrum than anything.

"Do you know what you're going after you leave here? I think my sister is still somewhere nearby. I could maybe have her look at your arm… if you want" as he spoke his tone conveyed he was still somewhat upset, but also more than a little apologetic.