[Comm] Vampiric Rites: Catalyst

The one thing Vivian was truly passionate about, was roses. Out of all flowers, roses were the most majestic, most passionate, most romantic flower that ever existed, and every single rose that she cultivated was months of diligent care and attention. To Vivian, tending to these beauties was not only an occupation but a life calling. And due to this, Lady Calla was dreadfully curious about getting to know this lovely mortal whose life’s work was tending to something so fleeting, yet so beautiful.

It all started when they had crossed paths with sheer serendipity playing a huge part. It was late afternoon when she was strolling about, a rare free hour to herself. It was then that she had seen Vivian’s shop, a beautiful array of floral arrangements on display, but what was peculiar was that only one type of flower remained the centerpiece for every single arrangement. The rose.

Curious, she makes her way over, casually looking at the bouquets. There was no question that every single one of these was made with meticulous effort and love. This was a product of passion, not merely the need for money. Vivian walks out to tend to the new coming potential customer, gently fluttering her wings behind her. “Good afternoon-” she greets pleasantly. “Pursuing the collection?” she asks. Calla merely lets out a small sound in agreement, glancing at Vivian momentarily before looking once more to the collection. ‘This one doesn’t look bad either~’ Calla thinks to herself, admiring the florist. Vivian had a beautiful physique, soft tanned skin and piercing golden eyes. She smelled faintly of coffee and petals. There was nothing to dislike. Nothing at all.

“Is there a specific occasion you are celebrating?” Vivian asks. “We have one for all sorts of celebrations and occasions.” She gestures to a beautiful bouquet full of red roses. “For love, perhaps? These are quite popular. An extravagant way to proclaim your love. Red is the color of passion and drive, and sends a clear message of wanting and interest. A truly classic piece. Whether it be for newly weds or a new commitment, these red roses will surely create a lasting impression” Calla smiles and gently runs a finger on the red roses. “Not quite~” she says calmly, continuing to look around. It seemed that what she was looking for was not quite in store, but Vivian was willing to help her find at least the next best option available at the moment. Perhaps, she would even be interested in a custom arrangement. 

“Hmm. Or perhaps an elegant bouquet of pink roses?” Vivian continues, gesturing to another set. “These blooms are a lovely way to say thank you. It gives an aura of grace and gentleness, a symbol of elegance and refinement. If red is too strong on you, a beautiful pink could possibly be a good choice.” Calla merely smiles. She leans over and takes a small whiff from the bouquet. “Lovely, but again, not quite what I am looking for.” she says, shaking her head slightly.

Vivian nods, but also wonders what this mysterious and beautiful stranger was looking for. The customer had long flowing locks of white. Her skin was deathly pale but she had a curious glint in her red eyes. Her wings were neatly folded behind her. The lady was ethereally beautiful. “What would… you like to see, maam?” Vivian asks curiously. “We have it all. Blue roses for ambition and dreams, green ones to signify wealth and stability, or perhaps a beautiful yellow one for good luck and positivity?”

Calla thinks for a moment and turns to Vivian, her red eyes glinting in the streetlight. “What is your name…?” she asks sweetly, talking over to the other. Vivian stands up straight, smiling with pride. “I take care of the most rare and most beautiful blooms in the city.” Calla smiles, tilting her head curiously. “Is that so?” she asks. “Tell me, what makes you wish to continue to care for these things when they’re just so… so… temporary. So ephemeral.” Vivian’s eyes widen in surprise. What an odd question.

“Well-” she starts. “They are… my specialty. They are what I do best. I turn flowers into beautiful blooms. I see something so beautiful, so rare, and I cannot help but think to myself that it needs to be preserved into people’s memories as the most beautiful bouquet they have ever owned. To be the best versions of themselves. Sometimes, I preserve the most beautiful ones in resin to make sure they are ageless. Such beauty does not deserve to wilt.” she says with a small nod.

Calla smiles, a dangerous smile. “What a beautiful answer” she says, gently placing her hand on Vivian’s cheek. Vivian does not seem fazed, but still is a little surprised. What an odd customer, she thought to herself. Flirtatious, but not unwelcome.

“I know exactly what you mean-” Calla continues. “For someone to see something beautiful, and want to turn it into the best version of itself. You Vivian, are a beautiful flower. But I wish… to turn you into something more… exquisite. The best version of yourself.” Calla turns around and flashes Vivian a dazzling smile. Her fangs peeked through and gave Vivian an uneasy feeling.

“And tell me. What flowers would be best suited for let’s just say… a funeral…? Your funeral.”

Vivian’s eyebrows knit together in confusion. Before she is able to ask Calla what she means, Calla lunges forward, sinking her fangs into Vivian’s neck. Completely caught by surprise, Vivian reels back, and the two struggle for a while as Calla begins her feast.

What was happening?! Just who was this stranger! It was too unfortunate that there was nowhere in the vicinity, but somehow Vivian could feel her strength slowly draining from her. 

At the brink of consciousness, Calla sits up and wipes some of the blood from her mouth. She stands up, walking over Vivian’s weak body and gently turns the sign of the shop.

“Shopping hours are now over.” she says playfully.