((Thank you. It's hard to write a character who's this much of a mix of good and evil, but it's quite a bit of fun.))<br/><br/>Lord Vance landed on the balcony of one of the tallest towers of his castle. The door swung open for them, and he carried Evie inside, gently setting her feet down on the marble floor. The mist around them dissipated, and he straightened his back, towering over her. He was taller than any man from her village, and his shoulders were broader. The effects of being born noble, being well-fed while he grew up, and of being a vampire. Raven-black hair fell in wavy locks over his shoulders, and the beard encircling his mouth made his stern expression all the more intimidating.<br/><br/>(https://rei.animecharactersdatabase.com/uploads/chars/5688-1841060616.jpg)<br/><br/>"That worthless boy has been cast aside, nothing more," said Lord Vance, his voice deep and rich as the darkest chocolate. There was a smooth quality to his tone, like suede or fine wine. "I suspect the boy will live, though he will be confused. If he truly loves you as he claims, then he will find a way to rescue you. Even one such as I can do little to combat a force such as true love."<br/><br/>Lord Vance reached out and held both of Evie's shoulders, his strong hands weighing down on them. A gesture which would surely make her feel small, and emphasize how much stronger he was. She'd need to be afraid of him if he was to keep her from doing something foolish, like trying to fight.<br/><br/>"But, until that rescue happens, you belong to me. Any luxury or joy that you have is something I can give or take away at will." Lord Vance's hands lowered to the front of her dress, just over her chest, and ripped it in two, leaving her naked. Though her body was exposed to him, Lord Vance's eyes never left hers. He did not allow himself to gawk or ogle her body, for that was not why he removed her clothes. "You will be granted new clothes when you have pleased me. Until then, you live like this. Do you understand?"