Inheritance of Shadows [Hugo Vlad x Fem!OC]

Chapter 6: Will you remember me when I'm gone?

Often, when a person meets a person that changed them, it would be forever.

Heartless—that's how the world is built.

Regardless of fear, regardless of greed, regardless of death.

The world never stops for just one person.

One person.

One per-

"ARRGG!!"

His eyes darted, pupils erratic. Bottomless crimson flowed into vision. Breathing ragged, quivering brutally. Heart pulsating like each punch into the chest. Everything he saw was red. His mind melted in terror.

Fear of a memory following another pursuit of agony.

'No more- please!'

Kicking, biting, gnawing. He did everything to hurt himself to keep intact. Anything to stop the curse from ruining him further.

He didn't want to lose anything.

"Yukari, please- fuc-"

His heart beat fastened. He wasn't going to let this happen. He took the emerald from his pocket. Watching the emerald, the reflection of himself. His sclera's were turning black and his pupils turning red. The fangs grew subtly yet it was prominent. Trepidation followed right after.

It wasn't usual for Hugo to be fearful. After all, he always wore his poker face to protect his last few feelings. He didn't want Yukari to worry. He didn't want anyone to see how he felt. He'd fought alone for years.

With all his might, he attempted to crush the emerald—only for the emerald to slip out from his gloved hand, rolling over to the floor. Panic sets in.

"No- Don't-"

He drops down, scrambling on the floorboard of his home. He'd scraped his way back, barely conscious, his inner demon arousing his mind with delight.

He reached for the emerald, gasping, scurrying. Crawling over like it was his last dying breath.

Sorrow filled his mind when another memory of Yukari slipped past him.

"Y-Yukari- No- Noo!"

His eyes welled up. He snatched the emerald and crushed it. Shattered pieces scattered and disintegrated into thin air.

The demon that ruined him once more, subdued temporarily.

Who knew such a curse could haunt him like this?

He slammed his fist into the floorboard, denting it in the process. He felt hollow.

'Remember, remember- There's no way it's gone. No way, no way, no way- it can't be gone- It must be there- please just search for it already!'

He bangs his head to the floor, enough to make himself bleed.

So cruel.

So, so cruel.

He cursed, punching the floor deeper. He didn't want to believe it. He gritted his teeth.

"Father, may you never rest in peace."

—

Yukari stirred her morning coffee, staring outside her window. She didn't feel like going out. She wanted to stay home. Reflect. Wander. Relax, taking it easy.

She took a paid leave, wondering if she'd ever return to normal. She thought so deeply about Mockingbird.

Unusual.