The Vampire's Kingdom

Chapter 1: Vampires, Castles, and Realms, Oh My!

I feel goosebumps creep up my arms as the cool September breeze brushes past me, whipping leaves into the air like a colorful tornado before letting them dance back to the ground.

I hug myself and rub my hands over my arms in hopes of chasing away the chill. I come to a crosswalk and hesitate before crossing. I look at my unfamiliar surroundings and groan when I realize I am lost.

"Dang it, Alexandria," I let out a sigh as I speak to myself. "How did you manage to-"

I silence my self scolding when I hear crackling leaves coming from my left. I cautiously glance over my shoulder, partially relieved when I see no one near. I look around once more before I decide to head back the way I came.

I should have accepted that ride from Creepy Cody, I think to myself, shaking my head. At least I wouldn't be lost. I could be at home drinking hot chocolate and eating Pop Tarts right now.

The smile that last thought had brung was quickly wiped away as a dark figure came into sight. Not wanting to confront whoever is walking, I turn into an alleyway- obviously learning nothing from all the crime shows I watch.

I look up at the tall brick buildings on either side of me. They are both hold an uncanny look, the bricks aged and crumbling. The taller building to the left has a few broken windows that make a whistling noise as the wind pass through them. A dog barks in the distance, adding to the effect and putting me on edge. I feel my hair stand on edge as goosebumps travel over my skin.

"Hey! You!"

I whip around as a gruff voice calls out from behind me. My heart jumps in my chest, I tense for a moment as the shock sweeps me. It's just us two in the alley, this person is definitely calling out for me. I draw a quick breath as the broad figure seems to speed up.

I turn without thinking on it anymore and begin to jog down the ally, hoping to escape from this creep. I glance back when I hear a menacing chuckle. My heart jumps when I see him right behind me. He smiles and reveals yellow-stained teeth, making me grimace.

Hasn't he heard of a toothbrush? The thought leaves my head quickly as I realize this isn't the time for silly insults. I am being chased. The realization kicks in, my legs almost give out on me and I stumble

I catch myself and shake my head, I have to focus on getting away. My body has to cooperate. I speed up, skidding around a corner. Finally seeing the benefits of being in track for four years, I make a quick mental note to thank my mother when I get home. I turn around another corner and my heart instantly drops. A brick wall, ten feet or taller, was blocking my only escape. I can feel the cold terror dig in deeper, chilling me to my bones.

I stop a few feet shy if the wall and turn to face my pursuer who...

Where did he go?

I go stiff when I hear light breathing behind me, breath catching in my throat. Well, there's my answer. I turn, fists clenched and ready to swing. I couldn't out run him, maybe I can fight him off.

I come face to face with him and almost gag at his putrid breath. I swing at him, but he leans away and I miss. The man steps closer and I resort to pushing him away. He grabs my hand and twists my arm. "Ah!" I cry out in pain as he shoves me down. "What do you want?" I yell, panicked.

He stares at me, amusement dancing behind his clouded, muddy eyes. He looks me over, making my skin crawl. Suddenly, he swoops down and lifts me up by my shirt collar. I hear the fabric pop and rip in protest. I am standing with my back pressed roughly against the wall and with his body trapping mine, arm over my clavicle to keep me pinned. Stunned and ears ringing, I don't hear him talking to me until he slaps me out of my daze.