1 Chapter 1

My old relative still drinks blood from mortals to revive the tradition by their necks, but we only drink fresh blood plasma we buy legally. We were wealthy in such a way that we had personal blood-bank donors if you will. That's how we are. 

As I thought, I began to wonder about the music and ambiance of the outside. What a marvel of the ages! I am out of words and that joy seems like an understatement of what I feel.

I always wished to stroll on the outskirts of town to witness the festivities of this harmonious festival and these "mortals." I wanted solace from the world beyond the gates of my home, but it was impossible.

A sigh escaped my lips, and I stared at the light shimmering brightly inside the paper lamps. "Child, would you like some rubies to match your eyes? A merchant lady abruptly asked me, causing me to avert my gaze from the lamps to her.

 "How much for this?" I asked with a raised brow. "For you, young lady? 60 Silver Qhatts. " The merchant lady answered with a wide, warm smile on her face.

 My eyes flickered and ogled the chain's deep navy sapphire, attracted to its deep blue ocean color. "Want to try it on?" My maid suddenly asked me, and I nodded with a smile, revealing a few of my jade-white teeth.

She shook her head at my silliness and turned to the merchant lady. The merchant lady smiled and handed the chain to her. She placed it on my neck and locked it. My eyes glowed as I stared at the chain latched around my neck. 

"It looks wonderful on you, young mistress." My head maid complimented me with a warm smile on her face. I nodded to her in response and my lips widened in happiness. "I'll purchase it." I placed a hefty brown sack of currency on the aged merchant lady's table.

 "Thank you, fair child." The lady smiled at me and I stared at the chain as it shone on my neckline.