A Weary Vampire

Chapter 14

The thrill I was feeling till now gave some way to fear to trickle through. I knew the basics of how royalty worked in the vampire world, but I didn't know if there were any special gestures or stuff you had to do! We were not taught that at counselling sessions... at least not till then.

It was scary, but the thrill had not left me yet, so in a split second I decided to go with the flow and use human manners. I think the low bow conveyed my respect, because I did not get any rebuking. A servant did tell me to rise, after the queen was seated, and it was enough relief for me.

She was beautiful. Absolutely stunning middle aged woman in royal purple robes, and earrings of what seemed like diamonds, and a small, but matching diamond studded crown on her head.

She smiled and gestured at me to drop the formalities. And as soon as I sat down in one of those plush leather seats, someone else entered the ball room.

Aaron.

Of course. Of course he had to be here.

He flashed me a smile, bowed to the queen, which was more like a nod, and sat down.

So you're Andromeda Dawn?

Yes.

The human feeder who my son Aaron here converted accidentally?

There was a tone in the "accidentally" I couldn't quite grasp. It almost felt like she was accusing me of it.

Yes.

I replied anyway.

Aaron?

He nodded his head.

Aaron do you understand that converting a human without their consent is a crime punishable by law otherwise?

Her tone was stern, with a bit of annoyance. I didn't understand the "otherwise". Why were royals exempt from the laws of their own land? It made no sense to me.

Yes mother...but it was an accident, I hadn't had a feeding in so long that I forgot when to stop. I promise it won't happen again. Ever.

My hands twitched in my lap. He sounded exactly like it would happen again, without any guilt and remorse.

Aaron, all actions have consequences. Because of your silliest mistake, Miss Dawn here has her life turned upside down, and you didn't even think to tell me something of this weight had happened. Your tiny scandal here could have ruined your father's reputation! What were you even thinking??

Aaron was quiet, looking straight into the shiny marble top of the table. I couldn't see any of his ego and entitlement on his face from the last time I saw him. Maybe he was actually scared of his mother.

I mean, I would be too, if she was the queen.

But I didn't love her attitude anyway. I understand they were royal and all that, but sometimes you should be considerate about the person who was actually affected and not just your own privileges? I still kept my calm. How she went about her communication skills was none of my concern. And anyway I didn't want any more trouble.

Now Aaron.

She was speaking to him again.

I want you to solve this issue, right here and right now. Before chaos ensues in the media and common people.

But mother...?

As soon as he looked up to reply to her, the fiery coals of her eyes stopped him in his tracks.

Okay. I will.

The queen's expressions softened and she gestured to the maids to bring in the tea.

While the tea and platters of other accompaniments were being set, Aaron asked me to follow him towards a golden silled window by the side.

How much will you take to keep your mouth shut about this whole...event?

Huh?

The surprise on my face wasn't from the preposition itself, but how harsh and straightforward it was, coming from a royal, standing in the same room as the queen.

Money? Gold? A house? Diamonds? Quick. Tell your price.

I... I'll have to give it a thought.

You have five minutes.