The Kingdom of Corentha, 2000 years ago

The subtle fragrance of orchids wafted through the hall, adding to the already ethereal feel of the enchanting looking hallway. The scent grew stronger as I drew closer to the Throne Room. Apprehension clung to me like a weight, dragging down my every step.

A storm brewed behind my moss-colored eyes as I recalled how elated the maid in the courtyard had been as she informed us that she was a part of the team that had decorated the Throne Room, early this morning, for Princess Iris' wedding.

The sound of cheers that went up from the soldiers surrounding me contradicted the horror-filled gasp that slipped through my lips.

I was sure that I had heard wrong but the smiles and hails to the new King and Queen enveloped me, like nails being driven into my heart, reaffirming what I had heard. Without thinking, I pushed through the crowd of men with one purpose in my mind; to find my mate.

The consequences for abandoning my post was nothing more than an after-thought that flitted away as quickly as it crossed my mind. If Iris, my Iris, was getting married I needed to see for myself. I was her mate! Only a few hours ago she had lain in my arms and told me that she was pregnant with my baby. We had made plans. She was going to give up the throne and we were going to run away together but now…now she was to be married?!

Something akin to disbelief streamed through me. It was impossible! She would never betray me this way! I was almost to my destination when my keen hearing picked up the sound of the ceremonious trumpets behind the large, solid, silver and red doors ahead.

I was steps away from the doors when they swung open with a flourish. The hem of a scarlet floor length tulle ball gown swept over the threshold. Caught off guard, I followed my warrior's instincts and immediately backed away; gathering the shadows of the hallway to hide me. It was a simple trick every vampire destined for the army was taught at a young age.

I watched with growing dread as a head appeared. Auburn hair in an intricate up-do with a few loose strands framed a heart-shaped face that boasted twinkling blue eyes and a smattering of freckles across a small button nose. Blood red rubies dripped

from her ears and neck portraying an elegance only attributable to royalty.

There was no denying it anymore. The woman standing before me, arms linked with His Grace Gitto Bernadotte, was my mate. Gitto was clothed similarly to Iris in just as much splendor and elegance. A King's crown sat on his head. My eyes quickly darted back to Iris and discovered a matching crown on her head.

The blood from my recent feed rushed up the full length of my body sending my slow

beating heart into a gallop. Icy torrents of delirious anger, insanity, and torment swept over me as I watched them smile and bow; completing the last rite of passage that would lead them to the throne. The ache in my heart intensified as they turned as one and walked back towards the Throne Room to take their place as the new King and Queen of the vampire race.