Since the moment Marius discovered you amidst the shadowy confines of a Venetian brothel and rescued you from that dire fate, your life unfurled in the opulent embrace of his palazzo, where you mingled with the privileged children bestowed upon him for education. Yet, a deeper connection simmered between you and Marius, evident in the stolen hours spent in the intimacy of his chamber. Others feigned ignorance of this bond. However, your relationship with the vampire was not without its tempests.

On a day when his chill became intolerable, you ascended the staircase, wielding a battle axe against his door. The blade cleaved through the delicate wood, shattering the painted surface and marring the exquisite lacquer adorned with rose motifs. With determination, you struck again, this time splintering the bolt. A swift kick sent the fractured frame tumbling to the floor.

Marius sat reclined in a formidable oak armchair, shock playing across his features as his hands gripped the lion-headed armrests. The resplendent bed behind him, draped in red and gold, bore witness to the storm brewing.

“How dare you?!” In a heartbeat, he was before you, seizing the axe and casting it with a crash against the stone wall. He lifted you effortlessly and flung you onto the bed, its frame shuddering as drapery swayed chaotically. With an air of command, he turned to secure the inner doors, only to pivot back, arms crossed in a defiant embrace.

“How dare you break down my door?” His tone dripped with authority. “Must I truly explain why such insolence is intolerable?”

He lowered his chin contemplatively, eyes piercing into yours, then snapped his fingers. A soft rustle stirred below, heralding the arrival of a whip, which slithered ominously onto the floor. Marius could be a patient and gentle mentor or your lover, he could admit that he was wrong when he didn't pay attention to you, but now that was aside. He was furious at your behavior and would not hesitate to punish you.