The Vampire's Crimson Kiss (Editing)

Chapter 17/the seduction of silence

After I drifted into slumber and then awoke once more. As I lay there, I decided to compose myself. I still felt a profound joy that I couldn't contain. The acceptance of my Somniloquy had managed to overshadow even the assassination attempt. The day had been a delight, and I was certain that the Duke had an interest in me that surpassed that of a mere guest. The people of the Night Market had been exceptionally welcoming. I had always felt like an eternal outsider throughout my life, but now I had found my people. I wasn't going to be a naive child; I knew it felt too good to be true, but I wasn't going to let this opportunity slip through my fingers either. Sitting up, I couldn't help but feel as though I had lived my entire life blindfolded, and now the blindfold had been removed. I was determined to embrace this feeling and hold onto it for as long as I could.

My movements alerted Mary, prompting her to knock on the door. It felt strange not having to conceal myself before removing my red gag. I announced that she could come in.

"The coven is in lockdown," Mary began. "The Duke requests that you remain safe while inquiries are completed."

"So, what would you like to do today?" Mary asked.

"Well, I am determined not to be defeated," I began as I sat up. "Madam Quaila kindly sent over some of what she used on me. I thought I would explore what she sent. Could you do my face the way she did?"

Mary smiled. "No, not me. Cub has a steady hand and a better eye."

"Good," I replied, feeling capable of anything now. "Fetch her."

During the coven war, we had to move from village to village at a moment's notice. Vampires could travel swiftly, and we needed to find safety before nightfall. So, I could dress in minutes. In the coven, getting up and preparing for the day could take up half the morning. I was growing accustomed to regular washing, and having clean hair felt less like a luxury. Now, I sat quietly, almost in a trance, while Cub worked on my face. I didn't want to rush her, as I found the attention to be a powerful and soothing remedy for my fears.

From what I had been told, vampires revelled in their vanity. No ostentation was too much, no dress too daring, and no one thought that spending two hours choosing which pair of gloves to wear was a waste. They would stop at nothing to outshine each other. For them narcissism wasn't a vice; it was a way of life. This was the world I was trying to enter. For the sake of my people, my duke, and my sanity, I decided I must replicate every fastidious detail, every sensual pout, every seductive stare.

After a shower, washing, scrubbing, dressing, corseting, and finally enduring Cub's attentions, I stood before a secret mirror next to Mary.

"How do I look?" I asked.

Mary examined my face intently, her gaze scanning Cub's work for the minutest flaw.

"Beyond perfect. Madam Qualia knows how to reveal your exquisite face; Electra will be most jealous. Finally, I stand before a princess."

I smiled, but Mary didn't know that I still didn't feel like a princess. However, looking in the mirror, I felt like royalty. I was waiting for the red polish on my nails to fully dry when there was a knock on the main door. I suddenly felt anxious.

I noticed Mary gripping her stiletto as she demanded the password once again. The Duke answered, the door opened as she apologized, and he entered, commending her for her caution. This time, Mary drew her short sword, and the two dog-headed guards readied their guns. As promised, through the door came the Duke. He was wearing a military uniform that appeared well-used, and his boots were speckled with mud and blood.

For a moment, I was overwhelmed by how pleased I was to see him again.

"I... I was going to say so much, but seeing your face now, I find that words have failed me," the Duke said as he entered. "They are deficient and insufficient when I see you."