The coolness of the banquet room was bracing, particularly considering the warmth of the drawing room they’d come from. Rey hovered close to the King, a strange, bone-deep sense of familiarity making something inside him ache. There was an unusual stillness among the guests as a decorated knight announced his Highness’ arrival with an accompanying horn.

From what Rey had observed, vampires had unusually exceptional hearing. So it tracked that no one dared speak, not even in a whisper. Crowds of court nobles watched their entrance with an eerie silence, long fingers braced around goblets of something dark and fragrant.

Rey could feel it inching up his spine: the feeling of eyes. The hunger in the room was suffocating. He moved closer to the King, knuckles white and fisted behind him. His Highness didn’t push him away, looming beside him like a shield.

It had only been a couple months since his “reincarnation” and Rey could already tell that things were more precarious here than he’d originally thought. The uneasiness oozed from every wall and window, creeping in like an unbeatable chill. It reminded him of the weeks he spent in the hospital, waiting for the other shoe to drop.

But it never did. It just lingered.

After a few moments the soft conversation began again. Beside them, Aden eyed Rey’s wrist.

“If you’re faint, we have a spot available beside his Highness during the meal,” Aden told him. His posture still hadn’t wavered, a straight-backed mirror of perfect manners. It made Rey feel like a slouch, especially considering Aden’s flat tone and judgmental expression.

Rey scowled. With a nod of farewell, the King begin his trip around the room to greet various aristocrats with a practiced ease. Rey stayed behind, uneasy. “How many times do I have to tell you all? I’m fine. If anything, I feel better than I did when we got here.”

Aden’s impassive expression made Rey itch. “Just don’t be stubborn. It’s obvious by the King’s pallor that he drank deeply. It does no good to play the martyr.”

“Right.”

“Welcome, my Lord.”

The voice was melodic and soft. It was a woman. Petite, with a slender frame and round, wide blue eyes. Her pale, heart-shaped face was as doll-like as it was predatory. She tipped her head, pouty lips curled into a wry smile. “I’m Lady Sophia. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Rey blinked, then returned the gesture. “Rey. I’m sorry, my etiquette could be better. I didn’t plan to come today.”

Sophia’s eyes danced. “Not at all. While I did not expect you to attend, you’ve already made quite the impression.” She paused. It felt deliberate. “If I may speak freely?”

Aden stiffened beside him. It made Rey smile. 

He leveled Sophia with an incandescent smile. “Of course.”

She cupped a white-gloved hand around her mouth. It wasn’t like it would make a difference, but it still made Rey feel like he was talking to an old friend. “The King has never looked quite so vibrant. And you’ve got quite an indelible scent. Word is that you’re going to help turn the tide of the war.”

“Sophia,” Aden said lowly. His lips were pursed. “You need to watch yourself. This is not the time for gossip, and this is the King’s concubine, not a schoolyard acquaintance.”

Sophia laughed, twirling a long tendril of blonde hair around her finger. “Relax, brother. I’m allowed friends, aren’t I?”

“I’m not offended at all,” Rey said. He inched closer to Sophia. “I appreciate you taking the time to talk to me. Would you mind introducing me to everyone? I’d love to learn more.”

“My Lord —” 

“Brother, certainly it is of use for Rey to make allies,” Sophia took Rey by the arm, eyes narrow and expression teasing. Her gentle grip on his forearm belied something stronger — like a lion feigning weakness.

“I’d be happy to introduce you to everyone, My Lord. Let us begin with the ladies.”