He couldn't believe it.  That child... he had overcome the bloodlust?  And so soon?  How?  Did this mean his other demons could too?  And would they start revolting?  All these questions bounced around his mind.  No, no.  He would not allow this to get out of hand.

He needed to put an end to this and figure out why this was happening. 

He needed the child.

...no, not in THAT way, you disgusting being.

"Well look who's back," the figure looked up as he licked the blood from his lips.  He set down the arm of the young man he'd been feasting on.

"I've no time for pleasantries," he responded coldly.

"Oh, but you made time to come visit little old me.  I'm flattered, really.  I love when you come see me."

"Get up."

The smile faded from the figure's face as he moved to get to his feet.

"There is a demon slayer that will be passing through.  With him is a demon child.  Kill the slayer and get me the child.  I am giving you more of my blood for this.  Succeed with your mission, and I will grant you more."

Before the figure could react, he jabbed his clawed finger into his neck.  The figure's body spasmed uncontrollably as the blood worked its way through him.  Finally, he collapsed, and he released him.

He stared at the figure, a cruel smirk tugging at his lips as the figure gasped for breath.

"I do hope you don't fail me.  Or you will be begging to have a nichirin sword through your neck."

***

(262 words)

Ace gets a little freaky