Vale reeled back as the length of his tongue was shredded, blood beginning to run down the back of his throat, [i]his own blood.[/i] He staggered, loosely gripping his sword with one hand. A gurgled chorus of laughter began to bubble past his injuries as he regained his balance, staring intently into Alvios' eyes as best he could manage. One hand reached shakily into the inner pocket of his cloak, and he pulled out a vile of red liquid, struggling to keep from dropping it. With the tip of his thumb, the cork lid that sealed it was popped out, and in a frantic motion, the vampire poured its contents into his mouth, sucking on it desperately, all while keeping his flickering eyes locked with Alvios'.