I stood in front of a mirror, and stared at the breathtaking gown I was wearing. I was wearing a blood, red dress. I looked like a piece of meat, waiting to be ravaged alive.
The bodice molded to my figure with a gentle embrace, while the voluminous skirt cascaded around me, pooling at my feet in a cascade of scarlet elegance. Wearing the dress made me squirm inside, as though I was trying to fit into a mood that just didn't match to who I was. The fabric felt foreign against my skin, and every glance in the mirror intensified the discomfort I was currently feeling. It was like I was wearing a costume, pretending to be someone else, like an imposter. All I wanted to do was retreat into something familiar, something that felt like me, and this was definitely not me.
For once in my life, I felt beautiful, but beneath the facade of elegance, there was a constant reminder of the sacrifice it demanded. The corset was tight, compressing my ribs and making each breath a calculated effort. The heels, though stunning, pinched my toes with every step, where I could already feel blisters forming. The delicate straps of the gown dug into my shoulders, leaving marks that would surely linger longer after I took off the dress. Already, I regretted accepting being Alexander's plus one to this ball.
As I walked towards the foyer, I felt the silk of my red ballgown flutter around me, its intricate lace bodice hugging my curves with delicate elegance. The full skirt billowed out like a blossoming rose, trailing behind me as I glided down the stairs, feeling every eye drawn to the fiery allure of the crimson fabric. My movements became awkward, as though I was constantly aware of every stitch and seam. Thankfully, Alexander took my hand as I reached the bottom step, and escorted me out of the palace and into the awaiting carriage.
The majestic horse, with its glossy coat stood tall and proud, its powerful muscles rippling beneath the surface. Adorned with intricate harnesses and plumes, it exuded an aura of regal elegance as it pulled the ornate carriage behind it. The carriage itself was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, its polished wood gleaming and adorned with intricate carvings and gilded accents. As it rolled along, the carriage seemed to glide effortlessly, propelled by the rhythmic hoofbeats of the noble steed. It was a scene straight out of a fairytale, evoking a sense of timeless romance and grandeur.
I allow Alexander to escort me closer to the carriage, and as I move, the stiff material of the dress chafed against my skin, and I could sense a dull ache in my back from standing too straight for too long. Each step, was a delicate balance between maintaining grace the dress commanded and enduring the discomfort it inflicted. But for now, I smiled and adjusted a stray curl of my hair away from my face, ready to face the evening ahead, wrapped in this paradox of beauty and pain.
"Stop fidgeting, you look beautiful." Alexander muttered beside me.
As soon as I heard Alexander utter the words, a warm flush spread across my cheeks, betraying my emotions. Me? Beautiful?I could feel the heat rising, turning my face into a telltale shade of crimson. My heart quickened, pounding in my chest as I tried to muster a response, but the unexpected compliment left me momentarily speechless.
I could only manage a shy smile, hoping it would convey my gratitude better than my stumbling words could. "B...beautiful?"
He did not answer, only gazed down at me.
I exhaled heavily. "Beautiful is not a word I would describe myself."
Alexander arched a brow. "No? Then, how would you describe yourself?"
"Plain." I uttered before slipping inside the carriage.
As soon as Alexander sat beside me, the gentle sway of the carriage soothed my thoughts as I sat back agains the plush, velvet seat. The rhythmic clip-clop of the horse's hooves created a calming cadence, blending seamlessly with the soft creak of the wooden wheels on the gravel path. The window beside me framed a picturesque scene; rolling hills blanketed in emerald green, dotted with wildflowers that swayed gently in the breeze. Sunlight filtered through the canopy of the trees lining the road, casting dappled shadows that danced across the carriage interior.
I could smell the faint aroma of blooming flowers mixed with the earthy scent of the countryside, a refreshing change from the bustling village. As we passed through another quaint village, I caught glimpses of charming cottages with thatched roofs and gardens bursting with colour. Children waved enthusiastically, their laughter echoing faintly as we rolled by. It brought a tear to my eye, seeing the children so happy and...free, unlike my harsh reality.
Alexander wakes me from my troubled thoughts, by clearing his throat. "Before we arrive, I must tell you a few things."
Like what? I wondered to myself. Surely this wasn't going to be some sort of vampiric ritual or something more disturbing than that. Or was it? Was that the reason why he brought me with him? Was that the reason why I was dressed like this? Was I the sacrificial lamb waiting to be slaughtered?
I gasped. "Oh, no!"
Alexander frowned. "What's the matter? You've gone all pale."
"Am I going to die?" I stuttered.
He looked taken aback. "What? Of course, you're not going to die. Why would you think that?"
I scoffed. "I guess, being dressed like this, I couldn't help but think that I was being taken to my death."
Alexander reached over and placed his hand over my own, his touch was as cold as ice. "You are my guest, and I wanted to bring you with me because I thought you might like some time away from the palace, but if you're uncomfortable, I shall order this carriage to turn around and not think twice about it. Is that what you want?"
I shook my head. "No, I wish to stay. Truly."
Alexander smiled softly. "Very well, then. Now, as I was saying, I need to tell you a few things. When we arrive, remember to smile, be kind, respectful and civil towards the guests. Show any kind of hostility towards any vampire or any creature that awaits us, they will not like it. Not one bit. D0 you understand?"
I nodded. "I understand."
Alexander avoided my gaze, his expression saddening. "Also, you might see some... unpleasant things."
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"Since the auction, some humans might look different than the last time you saw them." Alexander explained.
I frowned. "Different?"
He nodded. "It depends on how their masters have treated them. Some may have treated their servants kind while others may have treated them harshly. Not all vampires are as merciful as I like to be."
My mind immediately wondered to Noah. Was he being treated kind or harsh? I chose the latter after remembering who it was that purchased him at the auction. Lilith.
He continued. "Also, do not be surprised if you see vampires feeding on their servants tonight. When you do, do not feel saddened when you see the humans seemingly unbothered by it. I have heard some humans enjoy the pleasure it brings them while others hate it so much they've become numb to it."
"They've become numb from the pain." I whispered.
"And the ones who feel nothing are the ones close to being discarded by their masters. Do not pity these humans for they have been waiting for death to welcome them for a long time. It is a gift for them."
"But what happens when they are discarded? Are they buried and are given a farewell ceremony?" I asked.
"No." He swallowed. Hard. "They are fed to the wolves. Never to be seen again."
Tearing my gaze away from Alexander, I gazed across the horizon, when I suddenly see a looming silhouette emerging from the mist, its dark spires piercing the sky like jagged claws. The gothic castle stood proud and foreboding against the backdrop of the rolling hills, its ancient stones weathered by time yet exuding an undeniable aura of grandeur.
Each tower seemed to reach for the heavens, casting long shadows that stretched across the land. Turrets jut out defiantly, while battlements stood guard like silent sentinels, their sharp edges cutting through the mist with an eerie grace. As we drew closer, the details became clearer, the intricate carvings that adorned the walls, the stained glass windows that glimmered with muted light, the ivy that creeped its way up the ancient stones like a living tapestry. It was a sight both haunting and mesmerising, a testament to the power and majesty of a bygone era.
"Welcome to Castle BlackRose, also known as hell." Alexander drawled sarcastically as he helped me out of the carriage.
The heavy oak doors groaned as Alexander pushed them open, revealing a dimply lit foyer of the gothic castle. Our footsteps echoed off of the stone floors, the sound amplified by the vast, cavernous halls. The air was so cool and carried a faint mustiness, a testament to the castle's ancient history. Tall, arched windows stretched high above, the stained glass depicting scenes of legends and lore. The light filtering through casted eerie, multicoloured patterns on the cold stone walls, illuminating the intricate carvings of grotesque gargoyles and mythical beasts. Shadows danced in the corners, flickering as the few remaining torches struggled against the encroaching darkness.
Alexander and I treaded carefully along the corridor, my fingers brushing agains the rough-hewn walls. The texture was uneven, worn smooth places by centuries of hands passing over the same surfaces. Alexander and I walked in silence down the shadowy hall until we come to a stop behind two, wooden gargantuan doors. It soon opened, revealing a vampire servant.
He peered over at us. "Is that you, Alexander?"
He approached us with a measured, deliberate gait, his movements almost too fluid, like a shadow slipping across the floor. His skin was ashen, with a faint, unnatural pallor that spoke of centuries spent away from the sun. His eyes, a deep, unsettling red, seemed to pierce through me, its gaze intense and unblinking.
Alexander grinned at the servant. "How are you, my old friend?"
"Very well, my good sir." He bowed slightly, a gesture of respect or perhaps mere formality, revealing a high, starched collar that framed his gaunt face. His hair was slick, iron-grey, meticulously combed back, giving him a timeless, aristocratic air. Every line and wrinkle on his face was sharply defined, etched deeply into his skin as though chiseled from stone.
"I am glad to hear." Alexander motioned to me. "This is Jane, my companion for the evening."
His attire was meticulously maintained, though worn and outdated. A black frock coat with silver buttons hung from his narrow shoulders, and a crisp white shirt peeked out from beneath, its cuffs slightly frayed. His hands were slender, almost skeletal, with long, pointed fingers that looked like they could snap a twig-or a neck- with minimal effort.
As he spoke to me, his voice was low and smooth, and an accent that hinted at a long lost era. "Good evening, miss."
"Evening." I responded, politely.
The vampire servant studied me nervously and slowly moved his gaze back to Alexander. "The guests have all arrived. They have been eager for your arrival."
Alexander rolled his eyes. "I'm sure they have."
"If I may, rumours of you purchasing a blood servant for yourself is all what everybody seems to be talking about these days. I, myself am amazed to see that the rumours are in fact true. But after all these years, why now?" He inquired, his tone dripping with a politeness that felt both genuine and unnervingly detached.
"As much as I understand your curiosity about my companion this evening, I do not appreciate you spying on behalf of Lilith. That is not very becoming of you, Vladislaus." Alexander uttered.
Vladislaus bowed. "Apologies, my prince. It was never my intention to overstep."
"Granted."
"I hope you have a lovely evening, sir." The servant turned to look over at me and lowered his eyes. "And you, miss."
With a sharp nod, Alexander took my hand and led me inside the ballroom. The sight of the room took my breath away. The vast space was illuminated by the soft, golden glow of countless chandeliers, their crystals sparkling like a myriad of tiny stars. The high, vaulted ceiling arched above me, adorned with elaborate frescoes depicting mythological scenes, their colours rich and vibrant, even in the dim light.
"Wow." I whispered in awe.
The polished marble floor gleamed beneath my feet, so smooth and pristine that it almost mirrored the opulence above. The walls were lined with tall, arched windows, their heavy velvet draped drawn back to reveal the night outside, where the moonlight added a silvery sheen to the scene within. Elegant, glided mirror were strategically placed around the room, reflecting the light and the movement of the guests, creating an illusion of infinite space. The air was filled with the soft strains of a live orchestra, their music a delicate tapestry of strings and winds that weaved through the room, setting a graceful tempo for the evening. Vampires were dressed in resplendent attire glided across the floor, their gowns and tails swirling in perfect harmony. The vibrant colours of their attire - deep blues, rich reds and shimmering golds - blended into a beautiful yet haunting moving mosaic. The murmur of conversations, punctuated by occasional laughter, added a warm, lively undercurrent to the refined atmosphere, almost making me forget what was really happening in the world.
"Would you like to dance?" Alexander asked.
I scoffed. "Dance? I've never…"
"What?" Alexander frowned. "You've never danced before?"
I shook my head. "I never thought I'd need to learn."
"Well, would you like to?"
I nodded. "Okay, but I can't promise I'll be any good."
Alexander chuckled as he led me slowly towards the dance floor.
At that moment, it seemed like every guest in the room had stopped mid-conversation and mid-twirl to stop and stare wide-eyed at Alexander and I, but why? We too were also guests at this gathering. But although the majority of the guests looked almost confused to see the prince in attendance, they still bowed and smiled as he moved along to the centre of the room.
Suddenly, he twirls me around by surprise, lifted me up in the air, and placed me on top of his feet.
"Comfortable?" He asked with a smile on his face.
I looked down at my feet resting on top of his and grimaced. "Yes, but now I feel as though I'm crushing you, especially with these ridiculous heels."
"Nonsense. You're as light as a feather." He pulled me close to his chest, puts his hands on my waist as we began to dance.
The soft strains of the orchestra filled the room as Alexander glided me across the dance floor. The world around us faded into a blur of soft lights and muted colours, leaving just the two of us in a bubble of music and motion. I felt his cold and steady hand in mine, our fingers interlacing perfectly. His other hand rested lightly on my waist, a gentle yet firm presence that anchored me to him.
As he began to sway, his steps were slow and measured, perfectly in sync with the waltz playing. I could feel the subtle rise and fall of his breath, matching the rhythm of our movements. Alexander's eyes met mine, and in that moment, nothing else existed. The intensity and warmth of his gaze made my heart race, even as the dance itself kept us calm and composed.
"That vampire that greeted us at the door, do you know him well?" I asked, curiously.
His eyebrows rose. "Vladislaus?"
I nodded my head.
He nodded. "He has served Lilith's family for many years."
"He seemed kind." I peered up at him. "And he seemed to know you fairly well."
Alexander gave me a knowing look. "He has seen me visiting Lilith on multiple occasions."
"Oh." I looked away in embarrassment.
A pause.
The room around us seemed to swirl gently, the other dancers a distant, flowing backdrop to our private moment. The soft flow of the chandeliers casted a warm, golden light on his face, highlighting the contours of his features. I could see the slightest smile playing at the corners of his lips, a secret shared just between us.
"Will you eventually marry her?" I asked.
"Absolutely not. I have no desire to marry."
I raised my brows. "Ever?"
He shook his head.
"Neither do I."
He looked at me questioningly.
I scoffed. "I cannot be a blood servant and somebody's wife. It is unheard of."
"You can marry if you so wish to. I will not stop you." He said.
I smiled sadly. "Do not joke about such things."
His tone hardened. "I am not joking. I am being honest."
"If that's so then, answer me this. Where will I find a husband in this sort of life?"
Alexander stared intently at me. "I don't think you'll have that much trouble finding yourself a husband."
He moved me around effortlessly, almost as if we were floating. The music wrapped around us, a cocoon of melody and harmony that guided his every step. I could feel the fabric of his suit brushing against my dress, the delicate rustle adding to the symphony of sensations. Each step, each turn, brought us closer together, our bodies moving as one.
Suddenly, Alexander's expression changed from serene to anger.
"What is it?' I turned my head to see what it was he was looking at, and instantly, I felt a shiver race up my spine.
Phoenix.
My eyes locked onto him across the crowded room, and an intense wave of conflicting emotions crashed over me. He stood there, exuding confidence and ease, his presence impossible to ignore. He caught my gaze and smirked, that infuriatingly charming smile playing on his lips.
Seeing him ignited a fire of anger within me. I relay the words he had said the night prior, of me poisoning him and rolled my eyes at the ridiculousness of it. I would never forget all of the hurtful words he had uttered to me, and all of the times he had made me feel small and insignificant. Yet, despite myself, I couldn't help but be drawn to him, like a moth to a flame.
His golden hair fell perfectly into place, and his eyes - those deep, expressive eyes - seemed to see right through me. I hated how he could affect me so effortlessly, how just one look could make my knees quiver and my mind to spiral into chaos. I clenched my fists, trying to steady my breathing, to quell the storm of emotions that raged inside of me.
As he sauntered over closer to us, my pulse quickened. I noticed every little detail; the way his shirt fit just right, hinting at the muscles beneath, the slight stubble on his jaw that added a rugged edge to his otherwise polished appearance. He stopped a few feet away, his gaze never leaving mine. The air between us thick with tension.
At that moment, a waiter approached with a tray full of champagne flutes. Alexander took two from the tray, handing one to me and one for himself. "Here, drink it slowly."
I do as I was told and sipped it unhurriedly.
"Well, well, well, you decided to show up after all." Phoenix took one flute off the tray and waved the waiter away.
"It's not like I had a choice." Replied Alexander, his voice tinged with bitterness.
Phoenix chuckled darkly. "Nevertheless, Lilith will be happy to know that you've shown your face. You know how much these functions mean to her."
"And still I wonder why I bother?" Alexander muttered.
Phoenix drew his attention back to me and guffawed. "And look at this, you've brought your little pet with you." He said, his voice smooth and maddeningly casual. "You may want to keep her on a leash tonight, Alexander, otherwise she might try and escape again."
Baring my teeth, I snarled. "How is your cough? Still bloody?"
He growled. "I don't know how, but I know you poisoned me, you witch!" Phoenix shot back, his voice rising.
My eyes narrowed at him. "Don't like the taste of blood? Well, aren't you a hypocrite!"
His jaw tightened. "Tell me how you did it!"
I took deep breath, trying to rein in my temper. "If I knew how, don't you think I would've tried poisoning you much sooner!?"
There was a heavy silence as we both stared at one another, both breathing hard, emotions running high. Finally, Alexander broke the moment by pulling me closer to his side. "Enough, the both of you." He ran a hand through his hair, his own frustration evident. "Where is Lilith, anyway?"
Phoenix pointed out towards the courtyard. "She's outside mingling with the guests if you wish to see her, but if I were you, I wouldn't greet her just yet. I'd keep my distance."
"Why?" Alexander asked.
"Well, if your goal was to make Lilith jealous." Phoenix glared down at me. "Mission accomplished. Seriously, Alexander I thought you were better than that."
Alexander scoffed. "What on earth are you talking about?"
Suddenly, the entire room went completely silent. Heads swing in the direction of the doors leading out to the courtyard to see an angry looking Lilith marching towards us. She wore a white, strapless silk dress with a slit up her left leg. She looked almost bride-like, but why did she look so furious?
"How dare you!?" She shrieked.
Alexander frowned. "Lil..."
"Why have you brought that thing to our engagement party!?" Lilith seethed.