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I wouldn’t put myself in danger like that again. That was the part I gave my promise to. The rest of the sentence was open for interpretation, because I knew that I needed to find out more about this other world, about the world my bodyguard belonged to.
My heart fluttered at the thought of him for some reason. Was it his commanding presence or the way he protected us so fearlessly? I tried to banish whatever that was from my mind. He was a vampire, and he didn’t belong in our world. That was the only one reason why I was shocked that Father hired someone like that to protect Cass and me. But if my father trusted him, that meant that he was worthy of trust.
Still, there was something about him, something that both thrilled me and frightened me at the same time. I wanted to know more about him. I wanted to know to what extent he was connected to the vampire world, and how he kept control over that part of his being, that he could function so easily amongst humans.
Everything about that man was mysterious, and I loved a good mystery. That of course meant only one thing. I needed to go out that evening as well, knowing full well that he would follow me. But this time, Cass wouldn’t be with us and that would make all the difference.
Chapter Four
Adrian
That evening, we were all seated in the great dining hall. The dinner table was lavishly decorated with all sorts of delicious food, most of which the common folk didn’t even get to try, let alone have as their usual dinner.
I never liked joining these dinners with employers, mostly because I never felt a part of them, but at the same time, they insisted on this, thinking that it made me feel more comfortable. The truth couldn’t have been more different.
Tonight was no exception. Everyone was silent, probably still under the impression of what happened the previous night. All that could be heard was the clinking of the knives and forks against the fine china. The flickering of the candlelight cast an ethereal glow, adding an air of mystery, which I was sure the younger daughter appreciated more than anyone else.
I noticed her glancing in my direction several times since we started eating. I didn’t look back at her. But I did notice it with the corner of my eye. Maybe she had forgotten that I was a vampire and as such, details like that didn’t get past me?
Her father, the king, seemed to savor each delectable bite. All the food had been carefully prepared to tantalize the taste buds and satisfy the palate of the king, the princesses and the younger princess’ future husband.
The feast began with a selection of appetizers, served on delicate porcelain plates. A platter of smoked salmon, adorned with dill and accompanied by slices of freshly baked baguettes offered a burst of savory flavors. This was followed by roasted lamb cooked to perfection, presented with a fragrant herb crust, served alongside a medley of roasted vegetables,including caramelized carrots, tender asparagus and buttery baby potatoes. To complement the lamb, there was also a wild mushroom risotto.
Accompanying the main course, there was a selection of fine wines carefully selected to enhance the flavor of the meal. To conclude the dinner, a selection of decadent desserts awaited the guests. A tower of profiteroles, filled with luscious vanilla cream and drizzled with warm chocolate sauce, provided a sweet indulgence. Alongside them, delicate fruit tarts showcased the vibrant colors and flavors of seasonal fruits, nestled in a buttery pastry shell.
As I ate sparingly, I couldn’t help but think how many hungry mouths would have been fed by this plethora of food, which was more than enough for four people. I wondered if the food went to waste after dinner.
As I was wondering that, I didn’t realize that the king had been talking for a while now.
“Once, there was a time when humans and vampires coexisted in a fragile harmony,” the king began, his voice carrying a hint of nostalgia. “As our friend here will tell you,” he gestured at me with his fork, “they’ve always been considered immortal beings, blessed with strength and captivating allure. But their insatiable thirst for human blood led to unrest and conflict.”
He paused, his gaze shifting from one princess to the other, ensuring their attention was firmly captured. “A century ago, a war broke out between our two races. Humans, fearing the vampires’ insidious influence, sought to protect themselves and preserve our way of life. It was a time of darkness, where bloodshed stained the land and tragedies befell both sides.”
Everyone present seemed to be listening in awe, although I suspected they’d heard this story more than once, just like I had. Only, we probably heard different versions of the samestory. But I knew better than to interject with anything and correct the king’s version. Then, he decided to pull me into the conversation.
“Adrian probably remembers as much as I do of these old, ancient tales,” the king continued to speak.
“I’m not that old,” I frowned, but they all thought it was a joke. I let them think that.
“Do you still live as long as before?” Cassandra’s question took me off guard. I didn’t expect that she would be the one taking part in this conversation.
“No,” I shook my head. “Everything changed, depending on where you grew up.”
“What do you mean?” It was Lilith’s turn to join the conversation.
I turned my gaze to her. She welcomed it with an inquisitive expression.
“I grew up in civilization, with human parents,” I explained, and as always, the utter look of shock didn’t escape my notice. I expected someone to ask more, but they remained quiet, so I took that as an opportunity to quickly end my monologue. “Others grew up in the wilderness. I’m sure you all know of the serum that we use, which fights off the hunger and helps us keep it under control.”
“But you still feel that need?” Cassandra asked again, a slight hint of fear in her voice.
I knew what she was referring to. Was she and everyone around her in danger of me going berserk and mauling them all?
“Not in the way of those two feral vampires at the cemetery,” I tried to reassure her, but I wasn’t sure I managed to do it.
Luckily, the king interfered at this point. “You see, vampires, much like humans, are a diverse group. Some adhere to the law and seek to peacefully coexist, while others maystill succumb to their primal instincts. That is why vigilance is necessary, for the darkness within can never be fully extinguished. However, there are those who strive to forge a different path, to rise above their bloodlust and live alongside us in harmony.”
I expected them to ask more questions, but the king quickly changed the topic and now they were discussing the wedding. I couldn’t help but notice that everyone seemed excited about it. That is, everyone but Lilith, who was supposed to be the ecstatic one. She spoke the least, choosing to focus on her food instead, while her father and her future husband discussed the details.
