The Vampire's Court

Chapter 58-A Kings Burden

Mikael's townhouse was nothing short of opulent, a vivid explosion of color and extravagance that made Seraphine's eyes widen the moment she stepped inside. It was as if Mardi Gras itself had been contained within these walls, spilling over into every corner, every inch. The ceilings were high, adorned with intricate gold leafing that gleamed in the light of the massive crystal chandeliers hanging above. Rich, royal purple curtains cascaded down from floor-to-ceiling windows, their luxurious velvet folds tied back with thick golden cords. The walls were draped with tapestries of deep greens and golds, embroidered with swirling patterns that seemed almost alive in the flickering candlelight.

The floors were polished marble, so pristine they reflected the riot of colors in the room. Vibrant rugs, splashes of deep blues, emeralds, and purples, were scattered across the floors, their edges fringed with gold. Every surface gleamed, from the glass cabinets filled with strange, ornate relics to the polished ebony wood furniture that looked like it had been carved by hand centuries ago. It was opulent, gaudy, and undeniably theatrical.

Mikael, standing in the center of it all, fit right into his creation, dressed in robes of royal purple that matched the curtains perfectly, the fabric shimmering with faint traces of gold embroidery. Gone was the black and red attire, replaced by a style as rich and bold as his surroundings.

Dimitri cast a glance around, eyebrows raised, before offering a tight smile. "I see you've spared no expense in your decorating choices, as usual. Although, Mardi Gras isn't until February."

Mikael grinned, clearly unfazed. "We can't all have the personality of a tombstone, Dimitri," he said, his voice smooth with amusement. Gabriel and Andrei, standing just behind Dimitri, couldn't help but snicker at the subtle jab.

Dimitri's expression tightened, but he said nothing. Before he could respond, Mikael's eyes slid to Gabriel, a glint of mischief in his gaze. "And I see you made it out of Baba Yaga's house in one piece," he said with a sly smile.

Gabriel's grin faltered immediately, his face flushing a deep red. "Da. This time... barely," he muttered, which only made Andrei burst out laughing again, slapping his brother on the back.

Mickey and Narcisa, however, stood stiffly to the side, their movements tense. The werewolves seemed uneasy, clearly unsettled by the heavy vampiric energy that radiated throughout the townhouse. Mickey's sharp eyes darted around, his jaw clenched as if he were resisting the urge to bare his teeth.

Mikael, noticing their discomfort, gave them a slow, trusting nod, his hazel-green eyes softening slightly. "You're welcome here, don't worry." His voice held a surprising warmth, and though it didn't completely ease their tension, Mickey and Narcisa seemed to relax—if only just a little.

Mikael clapped his hands, summoning one of his elegantly dressed maids, who appeared instantly by his side. "Show the ladies to their rooms, s'il te plaît," he said, his tone as smooth as ever. "I'm sure they'll want to rest after the journey."

Narcisa, however, remained rooted in place, shaking her head slightly. "I'll stay with Mickey," she said, her voice firm, her eyes still sharp and alert.

Dimitri gave her a brief nod of acknowledgment before turning to Effie. "Make sure Seraphine has everything she needs," he instructed, his tone gentler, though the command was clear.

Seraphine, who had been quietly observing the grandiose surroundings with wide eyes, turned to Dimitri, her gaze suddenly pleading, though she said nothing. She didn't want to leave his side, that much was clear. But Dimitri offered her a small, reassuring smile. "I'll be up soon," he promised, watching her carefully.

Seraphine hesitated for a moment longer, then reluctantly followed Effie and Mikael's maid up the grand, winding staircase, her form disappearing as she ascended, leaving Dimitri's gaze lingering long after she was gone.