Vampyre: Desire Immortal

Chapter 35

House of Cards

What we thought would last forever

Is gone in the blink of an eye.

*****

The King declared Castle Corlac would have a festive holiday and a feast to commemorate Dyryke's return. The young man told fantastic tales of the splendorous and magical sights he'd seen. Everyone gathered around him. No one tired of his tales. People were coming in from near and far to see the man who had conquered the mountain.

The glimmer of light from Perdix's window could be seen deep into the night.

There was a knock on the alchemist's door.

"I have waited for you," Dyryke said. "You did not show up, even for free food."

"I have much work to do," Perdix said.

"Work, work," he said. "I swear Perdix, you will grind your body into the ground with all your work. And for what? These are the days of our youth! Come on! Live a little, my friend!"

Perdix lit a flame under a beaker filled with a rosy liquid. It bubbled and turned a brilliant hue of lavender.

"Nice trick," said Dyryke. "But does that get you the awe and fervent love of the people? I dare say not. Come with me. The King is serving the finest wine. Everyone is there. There is music, dancing, and so many beautiful women. You may have your pick. Heaven knows, I'm totally exhausted."

"I can imagine you've been rutting nonstop since the festivities began," said Perdix.

"Suit yourself," said Dyryke. "I only came up because the Queen asks for you."

"The Queen?"

"Yes, little busy bee," said Dyryke. "Why on earth she misses such a worm when she has me there is a puzzle I cannot solve. But who can explain the fairer sex? Unfathomable creatures, they are. And full of mystery. She asks for you, Perdix. What hold do you have on her? I would give a year of my life to know."

"I have no hold on her," said the alchemist. "She merely asks because I am working on a salve to relieve the pain from a back tooth that has been bothering her."

"A likely story," said Dyryke. "Deceive me if you must. Uncovering the secrets and intrigue of the court has always been one of my favorite pastimes. I will get to the bottom of the Queen's interest in you. And mark my word, I will turn it all to my favor."

Dyryke left Perdix sitting on his workbench. The alchemist stared into the flame. He absently rubbed the stubble on his chin with his thumb and forefinger.

Dyryke was clever. More subtle than he'd thought. Perdix made up his mind. He would have to watch out for that man. One wrong word and the whole house of cards could come toppling down on Perdix's head.