INTO THE CITY

Freda's POV

“Uncle? His uncle? But…but why is he so terrifying.” I whispered to myself, my chest heaved up and down as I tried to calm myself down. The man was too intense, especially when he gazed at me. It was as if, I was a prey and he was a predator.

“Sir Kieran can be….intense.” Volkov nodded as he helped me off the floor. “You don't have to worry about him your majesty.”

“Captain Volkov is right your majesty.” She placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. “He’s not used to outsiders especially people that aren't vampires but he won't hurt you now that he knows who you are.”

I took a deep breath and tried to steady myself. Right now, Damien’s influence was the only thing that was protecting me in this godforsaken castle.

“Alright. Let's just go.” I sighed and we both walked out of the castle. I stared at the huge black stallions and I was amazed. They looked beautiful and their obsidian fur shone under the sun. I wish I could have ridden them, feeling the wind in my hair and the power of their muscles beneath me.

“You could ask his Majesty to let you ride them some time.” Captain Volkov noticed my fascination with the horses and smiled at me.

“Maybe I will.” I muttered, accepting his hand as he assisted me into the carriage.

“Thank you captain.” I said as I settled into the plush interior of the carriage. The woodwork and upholstery screamed of class which impressed me. Christie climbed in beside me and offered a reassuring smile.

“Are you comfortable your majesty?” She asked.

“Yes..yes I am. I'm just a bit..flustered by Damien's uncle. I hope I never run into him again.” I let out a heavy sigh.
“I’m sorry about what happened. I'm sure it won't happen again.” Christie reassured me and I nodded. It still didn't rid me of the depressing feeling that I didn't belong here. Perhaps I was getting too comfortable but Kieran's presence just reminded me of that fact.

Captain Volkov took his place at the front, and with a command to the horses, we started our journey into the city of Valthrun. The clatter of hooves was oddly soothing and it made me relax a bit.

As we rode deeper into the city, I couldn't help but notice the predominance of vampires on the streets. Their pale skins and scary red eye's made them easily distinguishable, and I felt seriously out of place. Did Damien seriously expect me to be the queen of…this?. I know I was under his protection, but the sight of so many vampires still set me on edge.

Christie seemed to sense my discomfort so she began pointing out various landmarks in the city. A welcome distraction.

“That building over there is the Valthrun library. It houses some of the oldest and most ancient texts in the kingdom.” She said, pointing towards a grand structure with towering spries.

“And over there, is the fountain of eternity.” She continued, pointing towards a magnificent fountain in the center of the square. “It’s said to be enchanted with water that never runs dry.”

“How true is that though?” I asked curiously as I raised an eyebrow.

“Well.. I've never seen the water from the fountain dry up though.” Christie grinned.

“Fair point.” I nodded and she resumed her self appointed duties as a guide.

I tried to absorb the information and distract myself from the fear. I wouldn't lie the city was undeniably beautiful plus these vampires had there aesthetic game on. Despite my earlier tredipitation, I found myself curious about the place and it's history.

Finally, we arrived at our destination and my jaw dropped. The clothing store looked more like a mini palace than a shop. The building was humongous.
Captain Volkov dismounted from the carriage and opened the door.

“We've arrived madam.” He said, extending a hand to help me down.

I stepped down from the carriage and Christie followed suit. Ignoring the curious glances of the passer-bys, we entered the store and I just had to stop myself from gawking in awe.

The interior of the store was breathtaking. High vaulted ceilings were supported by wooden beams. The tall arched windows let in sunlight that illuminated the store and the air had this scent of aged parchment and lavender. It was simply beautiful.

“Beautiful isn't it your majesty?” Christie giggled as my awed gaze.

“Yes…it is.” I responded, focusing my gaze on the rows of dresses.

Rows of elegant gowns and finely tailored suits were displayed on wooden mannequins and hangers. It was a riot of colors as they ranged from deep, velvety black to bright yellow and many more colors. Each piece of clothing seemed to have been crafted by expert hands that paid close attention to detail.

Christie grabbed my hand and guided me through the aisles. Captain Volkov followed just a few steps behind as a guard but I still couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. The other customers, all vampires casted curious and often hostile gazes in my direction.

Their pale faces and crimson eyes were a steak contrast which made me feel out of place.

Despite the hostile gazes however, no one dared to approach me. All thanks to Captain Volkov.
His presence set me at ease and at least I wouldn't worry about turning into Vampire food. This situation was so damn depressing.

“Are you alright, your majesty?” Christie noticed my unease

“Of course I'm not alright, can't you see how the others are staring at me? Also, you're a Dhampir. Why aren't they staring at you like that too?” I asked.
“It's probably because I still have the blood of a vampire. Vampire’s despised werewolves and you have the blood and scent of one.” Christie explained patiently.

“Well..how depressing.” I sighed.

*I'm sorry your Majesty. Once The king announces you as his queen, this would cease to happen.” Christie said with hopeful eyes.

“Yeah, if he gets the chance too.” I muttered to myself as we continued walking the aisles.