Beyond Human: Queen's Shadow Series

45.) Masquerade Part I

June 1, 1954

~~~Apollos

As we all finished breakfast, we found ourselves making different banter while we were getting ready. We had The same clothing tailors come And help us get dressed, I was still taking any information that Fù told me, She and Augustus had a child, I was confused at how it was possible, but then I learned of Artificial insemination, I didn't know that was an option, but then again I never studied academia in its entirety. I didn't get much of a school education, I need to refine my skills.

I should probably start with educating myself again, I have educated myself in war, but I have never educated myself in knowledge, especially since it's been years. As we begin to make our final adjustments to our clothing, we get ready to leave. the clothes were comfortable, they felt like a second skin, and even though it was formal it didn't feel tight around my body. It felt great, it made me look like a clown, unfortunately. Maybe because I didn't like the aesthetic, I didn't like the fact that I was compared to a crow or maybe it wasn't because of my skin color. Maybe it was because crows were deemed to be an animal of death. I don't know, maybe Edgar Allan Poe would like this more than I do.

As I pull my mind away from that, I find myself, walking toward Lucian. I don't know why but I found myself, avoiding Priscilla. Ever since that day no matter how much she apologizes, she took advantage of her abilities. She knew I would hold back, she knew I wasn't going to hurt her, she knew I wasn't going to put my hands on her. No matter how I think about it, I don't think I can trust Priscilla. Maybe I should say something to her, but not at this moment.

For one, I feel as though it would be inopportune, and for two, I don't want to risk her, blowing up on me again. I did not realize she had a child's temper until just now which begs the question: How bad can her temper really get? 'Polly, what are you doing?" Before I could go any further, the devil spoke to me. I turned around and saw Priscilla's eyes and her peacock costume. She curtsied as she said, 'How do I look?' I smile, as I say to her, "like one of the prettiest peacocks in the world, but I am surprised you went along with it."

She frowns as she says 'I didn't want to, but Mother made me a promise.' I could already see Priscilla was waiting for this to be over, there were plenty of things on my plate. I wondered what she gave her, but I couldn't bring myself to care. Priscilla was always stubborn, so Mother had to find a way to coax Priscilla me on the other hand. I went along with everything, especially because there was a 90% chance it could help further vampires grasp on the world. Mom told me of her plans, she wanted to have a Vampire kingdom recognized in each sector of the world. An area made specifically for vampires and accessible only to vampires.

She wants a world where vampires and humans live side-by-side, she wants humanity to go to space in about 40 years. She has been planning for years, she has also been working on establishing healthier communication between the world, governments, and vampires. Reading everything about the Royal Masquerade completely took me by storm. There would be royal guards and plenty of other security personnel. All of them would technically be working together, they also seem to have more information to trade with one another. So this is how vampires have managed to keep themselves invisible to society. They are the society.

~~~Lilith

As I take in the environment, I remember every year the summit has happened I remember that I haven't been to them in almost 30 years I have only recently started coming. Even though I was ready to be queen, I was not ready to dabble in politics. I just sat on my throne, adjusting how much we spent and talking at the high table. The aristocrats are the lowest rank in power have been helping a lot with maintaining order now. They even went out of their way to relinquish a few of their senior-ranking family members into official military service. This is something that allows for a good political move long term. As I make my way around the ornate Hall I enjoy the new color scheme the golden fifties were in full swing and I allowed everyone to dress the most glamorous. As long as it was in the theme of the masquerade the vampires wore Predator animal clothing, while the humans wore prey animal attire. There were some exceptions but truly I enjoyed it. 'Madame Lilith, when you have a moment?' I heard the smooth-toned voice and I immediately recognized who it was "What are you doing here?"