"How did you get in?" He inquired, brows furrowing. He looked at the elevator and back.
"You didn't walk in through that, did you?"
Luana's laughter filled the room before standing up to the long window, where the Werecats knife had been through. She ran her fingers across the damage before replying.
"I guess you weren't told that I'm not some random girl. I'm nothing like the ones you relate to within your world," her lips twitched as she said the last two words.
"Why did you choose here anyway?" She walked back to where Zeidan was seated.
"It's my way of relaxing. Living here is okay to me because for a few moments, I forget I'm a vampire King."
"Trying to neglect duties, isn't it?" He felt her breath behind him. Her hands were running over his chest. He checked the wall clock and realized it was 10:00 pm already.
He stood up and held Luana between his arms, allowing his lips to crush hers.
"You do know why I called you here, don't you?" Zeidan asked.
"To be your Queen." Luana smiled as she kissed him again. Their mouths caressed each other with intended ease that belied Zeidan's arousal and the hard length of him pressing against her.
His hands trailed over her breasts, her arched back and hips leisurely as if expecting a signal inside of him. What more could he ask for? He was aroused already.
But inside he felt like this isn't right. This isn't how he's supposed to feel. He broke their kiss, frowning.
"What is it?" Luana asked eyes widened.
He stared at her for a while before pulling her in for another kiss. Luana took this time to explore him as well as she ran her palms over the hardness of his shoulders and chest. She expected him to shiver at her every touch but at every peak, they were almost getting to, the fire would stop burning.
As the moment passed, every caress, every touch did little to stir up the fire he had clogged inside of him. He tried hard to get her related to him. His body warmed up, head pounding, he felt his gums aching and he wondered if this is it. Until it stopped.
He disentangled himself from her embrace, trying hard to comport himself.
"Let's just go to the restaurant. We can get to know more about ourselves there." He turned and picked up his suit jacket before moving towards the elevator, Luana tailing behind.
Getting into the black BMW car with the woman beside him, he wondered if this was going to work.
He started the engine after a glance at Luana whose face displayed plenty of unasked questions. He wished he could answer them all but then he was confused himself.
They drove past the hustling and bustling environment of the city.
Luana raked her hands through her hair before breaking the silence that has ensued between them since they left the office.
"Is there a reason we can't eat dinner at your place?"
Zeidan turned the car to the right as they moved into what looked like a small town with mountains surrounding it. Tall trees silhouetted against the golden moon and the noises from the busy road dying behind them.
"Because I wish to eat at a place that's not in my world," he replied, emphasizing his last words to refer back to Luana's statement earlier.
They drove past tall ancient buildings and soon it looked like they were going into a dark forest. And they drove for a long time, in silence.
They got to a clear path after a long drive, and from afar, they could see a fountain. A big building ornated with golden flowers, trimmed flowers surrounding the place, and dimmed lanterns lighting up everywhere.
"Where is this place?" Luana inquired as the car stopped and they both got down.
"This is my palace." Zeidan walked majestically to his palace. Moving closer, some figures looked like shadows standing around everywhere and until they moved closer, Luana wouldn't have thought they were his workers.
"Welcome, your Highness." A figure that looked more important than the others greeted them before leading them in.
"We've got more problems than you can ever think of," the tall lanky man whispered before glancing toward Luana.
"Your guest is the 'terror Queen'?"
"I think it's best we talk about the problems, Wikh." He patted the man's back before leading him to a room.
"The Onyx...the WereCats have found out where it is!"
This message sent shivers down his spine.
"But how?" He wondered.
"We don't know ourselves, but we suspect that we have a traitor amongst us," Wikh suggested, his expression thoughtful.
Luana walked in on the men as she had been listening to their conversation from where she stood. She felt it right to intervene.
"I could help."
"Seriously, not you," Wikh began to say but was paused by Zeidan who placed a hand on his shoulder.
"I'd suggest we increase your army because the way I see it, the Werecats might outnumber us and defeat us—"
"Hold up, good gracious, your Highness, why is she using the word 'us'?" Wikh was beginning to be impatient with the woman's sophisticated character.
"Because very soon, I'm going to be your Queen and I'm going to make sure everything goes right," Luana spat before continuing.
"Zeidan, it's best you receive help from the ones who have the best Soldiers. They will help us defeat these Werecats I'm sure."
"Like your father?" Zeidan asked, brows drawn together.
"No. Like the Wolf packs."
Tension grew in the room suddenly and Luana quickly regretted her suggestion.
Zeidan could remember what history has to say about their relationship. Years of hatred waxing strong between the two groups. The Vampires and the wolverines never see eye to eye and this has been going on for ages.
Before his father's demise, he could remember being told what calamity the werewolves have brought to the vampire city and why they now have extra security. On that fateful evening, his Father had gone out to hunt for blood when he met with a pack of Wolves on his territory.
"This place is out of bound for you Wolves. We have nothing in common so I don't see why we can ever have a smooth relationship." Hail, Zeidan's father called out to the big wolf that stood in front.
"You will not tell us what to do, Hail." Azrael snorted, fangs gritted. "You all waste your prey by sucking their blood and leaving them while we see the need to clear up the mess and finish them once and for all."
But the vampires won't succumb to their threats. So, under the full moon, the vampires and werewolves fought till there was no space left on the ground to fit a foot without being smeared by blood.
His father died the following morning from the wound.
Zeidan's eyes were lined with tears already and he swallowed trying hard to comport himself.
He looked at Luana whose wide eyes stare back at him in regret.
"Don't feel bad, Luana, you have said well." Zeidan's eyes bore on her as if she was some screen that can be read.
" Your suggestion sounds good." He nodded to the man beside him.
"I also wonder if the Alpha will release his armies to you without asking for something in return. We both know how selfish he can be." Luana flung her hair backward as she said thoughtfully.
"Something like what?" It was Wikh who asked this time.
"Something so special. Something the wolves have been fighting to possess for a long time." Her red lips slightly parted as those words dropped like bombs, shattering Zeidan's heart as he mumbled.
"The Onyx."
"But I'll say that you propose something else to him. I hear he has a daughter not too important to them. She's as good as dead in their eyes. You can ask to marry her just to join forces with his men. She'll be our pawn." She sounded so confident.
"You're right. Don't worry, I know what to do." He has had enough brainstorming for the night.
"Wikh, take Luana to the Royal Chamber at the end of this corridor and make sure she is being taken care of properly. By the full moon, I'll do well to introduce her to the whole Vampirinos. As for the Wolf pack, arrange a meeting with them by the South Jungle. I hear that's where they'll be by this season."
"Of course, Your Highness. Of course." Wikh smiled wryly before leading Luana to the Chamber. "This way."
He knew he had no choice but to go by what Luana had just said. If he wants to keep the Onyx safe, he has to drop his ego and ask for a little help. It wouldn't hurt, he thought. The only problem is, that the Alpha is a ruthless leader. He has to find a way to convince him.
The jar shattered against the rocky wall that holds the cave right where the Cat leader lives.
"Holy crap. That woman has crossed me for the last time."
Cat Shelbrooke furiously ran his fingers through his spooky hair as he glared at the three cats before him.
One was full of orange furs and looked fat like an overfed pet. Another had black fur with a few white colors sprinkled on some parts. The last one that stood before their King looked like an underfed cat with its bony cheeks where whiskers grew and green eyes that looked like they could get lost in its socket. It had a grey fur color that did little to cover its ribs.
Shelbrooke looked away from the cats he so much trusted. His own most reliable cats were beaten like mere commoners by a woman.
Luana.
He was going to make sure she pays for it. He rose from his throne, now transformed, pacing back and forth in the cave, his pitch-black fur concealing his limbs as they drop on his body like black waterfalls. His stony eyes looked like they can kill one at a spot with just a stare. Those eyes gave a full light under the moon.
How could his army be such cowards? He was pretty sure they wouldn't have run if it was someone else asides from Luana. At least, someone less terrific. If there was someone he's been wanting to come across again, it will be Luana. Her father was the reason why they lost a lot of soldiers.
He grunted in disdain, strode back to his throne, and sat down.
"I need more information about where the Onyx is. After the full moon, we will be declaring war!" He commanded, his roaring voice tearing the cave and across.
The three cats whimpered as they retreated, their limbs shivering.
"Gorge!" He called and the cat with orange furs walked towards him, fear evident in his eyes.
"You will watch every step of that Vampire King and make sure none of our plans fails. This time, I need more hard work!" After his last word, he pounced on Gorge, his forelimb pressed against his face.
"You hear me?!" Gorge whimpered while the others nodded and whispered a yes.
Lyne knew this wasn't going to be a good idea. Following her sisters to the South Jungle was only going to be the same as before. Full of teases, taunting, and more bullying.
Her father can only do two things to help. Call her a weakling for not being able to stand up for herself or repeat the story about how she is nothing like her late mother.
Lyne watched all her siblings shift into wolves and run through the jungle, going to hunt. She so much wished she could do the same.
Going inside her room, she grabbed her bonnet and her boots. She was wearing black pants and a yellow long-sleeved top to protect her skin from the biting sun. She went under her bed and brought out a box on which was inscribed on it her mother's name in bold.
Gillian.
Opening it, she grabbed the bow and arrow that was inside it and admired it at first as she ran her fingers through the weapon.
Looking through the corridor, she realized it was empty.
Lyne wasn't certain what she was doing but she hoped it wouldn't lead her into trouble. Passing through the back of the building that stood erect behind a fence built with large rocks, she passed through the shabby grasses that rose in the middle. She passed by scattered flowers that were so pulled together she wondered if there was a path there.
When she couldn't get through, she knew she had no choice but to climb the fence. Wearing her hair up in a ponytail, she climbed the wall and jumped down to the other side. A dangerous attempt, all to prove her worth.
For a moment, she felt free and able to do whatever she wants. She ran through the woods and into the forest as the morning air brushed through her hair. This was it. Freedom. That was what she's always wanted. She felt the moment in her skin, her head, her heart until a spear crossed her front and went deep into a tree.
She gasped and missed her steps, causing her to fall.
"I'd suggest you watch where you're going, next time missus." A deep voice that sounded angelic seeped through her eardrums and for a while, she felt shy and didn't want to look back at the owner of the voice.
"Are you ok?" The voice called again and hearing footsteps, she knew he was coming towards her.
What if he was one of her father's army? What if he was sent to kill the Royal family and he recognizes her? He'll surely kill her.
"I won't hurt you," she heard him say and this time, his voice was firm but assuring.
Slowly, she let her eyes meet his and her heart skipped many beats for she has never seen such a handsome man before.
Intelligent ocean blue eyes gaze back at him with such innocence he was forced to feel pity for her instantly.
Her straight blonde hair worn up gave him a perfect view of her stature. Long beautiful necks that looked soft enough to be rubbed, plus kissable lips.
He tried to comport himself as he remembered he has a woman at home. Clearing his throat, he stretched his hands forward and helped her to her feet.
"Pardon me, ma'am. I just couldn't help but be security conscious." He tried to explain, sounding normal.
"You could have killed me!" The woman's reply shocked him to the bones. A soft-looking woman with such an authoritative attitude. Being a King, he wondered why he finds her amusing.
"Next time, you and your horse can wear medicated glasses before you commit murder!" She dusted her clothes, looking visibly angry, but trying every means to avoid looking into his eyes.
"I'm sorry. I already said that before. I didn't think you'd still be this upset," he looked at her confused but the lady's reply got him in the belt.
"What? I didn't know there is a certain number of times you should apologize for attempted murder. If you have a stinking ego, you should know who to direct it to, not me!" Lyne spat before running back to the way she came from, back to the palace before the others returned.
She glanced backward and saw the man climbing his horse back and riding away.
The trip to South Jungle just keeps getting worse.
Zeidan kept wondering who the lady was and how she got that kind of confidence. He couldn't push her away from his thoughts and soon, he found himself smiling as he remembered her action.
His other men had caught up with him and as Wikh rode beside him, he twitched his lips wondering what his King had found amusing.
"I see you just finished watching a comedy show. What happened your Highness?" He inquired from Zeidan who just looked at him and raised his brows quizzically.
"Oh goodness me!" Wikh clicked his tongue in disbelief as to the King's change of attitude.
The large royal house in the jungle was becoming visible to them as they rode.
They got to the large gates that guard the place but were surrounded by Wolves who gritted their teeth, ready to pounce and attack.
As furious as he felt, he tried his best to remain calm. The cries of his people and his father especially rang in his head once again. His Father's last words as he closed his eyes to rest in eternal bondage. His gums were aching again, veins popping out of his forehead. He tasted blood in his mouth and as he licked his lips, he realized his fangs were out and he had bitten himself.
"How are you doing, Korba?" Zeidan stared hard at one of the wolves with brown spiky fur and a bony cheek. His face held so much confidence knowing how his vampire powers always helped him read thoughts.
The other wolves gasped as they all stared at Korba.
"You know him?" One of them with muddy-colored fur queried, eyes widened.
Korba stood her ground as she stared into Zeidan's eyes, her slant eyes dilating.
"I believe you are preparing for your wedding with Azrael and you're trying your best to prove you are capable of being the wife to an army chief." As they all gasped, Korba still confused, jumped down from his horse and walked up to them majestically.
They all clenched their teeth in defense but were surprised to see the tall handsome man smile and bow.
"Your highnesses, I've only come for good and not for evil. I'm here to see the King." He began, not missing his captivating smile.
"And who are you?" He looked up to see the owner of the voice and he saw a big black Wolf.
He couldn't miss the description of the most ruthless army of the pack. One whose name has been on the lips of his subjects for ages. The one who killed his Father. He narrowed his eyes.
"Azrael!" He called. "Good to see you. It's me, King Zeidan of Vampire City. I'm here to see the Alpha," he was startled as the smallest of the wolf howled loudly.
Another one that was on the building started beating a big drum and immediately, he knew they were announcing the arrival of a stranger. Slowly, the gates were opened and he was led in with his entourage, the wolves pinning their eyes on his every movement.
Once they were assured their horses have been led to a safe stable, they were led into the palace. They walked through the long corridor that was lined with doors on each side. When they got to where they would turn to where the King would always sit. He didn't miss the detailed decoration.
From the silver ornaments to the golden curtains that beautified the windows. The chrysanthemums, the lily flowers, and the sunflowers all laced the tables and a red rug spread on the floor. He was deeply engrossed in his observation he didn't know when he bumped into someone.
"Oh, I'm so sorry!" She heard a tiny voice and he knew he couldn't miss it.
"Aggressive queen?" He called as he laughed at her.
His men looked at him, surprised. They had never seen the King laugh this heartily.
"Hey, arrogant idiot!" Lyne called back, already regretting her words as she saw that he looked like royalty.
"What are you doing here? Serving the King?" Zeidan inquired mockingly, his lips twitching.
Lyne shot him a glare before moving close to him as if to attack him, eyes not leaving each other.
"Lyne!" She heard someone call and she closed her eyes tight as she almost cursed the person who interrupted her best moment.
"Well," she faced Zeidan. "This isn't over yet." She walked away but not without shouting, 'Arrogant idiot!'
Zeidan proceeded towards the palace where from afar, one could see the huge throne covered in a red velvet texture. On each side of the throne, two golden wolf statues are placed.
He walked in majestically, ignoring the annoying growls of the wolves on his sides as he walked past them to the Alpha who sat on the throne in his human form.
"Who do we have here?" Styx's deep voice seared through the throne room, causing Zeidan to clench his fists harder.
He has silver hair that was so long it touched his shoulder. His beards were a mixture of silver and black as they barely left space for his tiny mouth.
As he smiled, the others could make out his brown teeth with slightly longer incisors. He looked like he was six feet tall with broad shoulders and chest. A ruthless feature for a ruthless Alpha.
When he got closer to the throne, a few feet away from it, he bowed slightly.
"I have come to see your Majesty." He informed, his dark gaze sweeping across the Wolves who stare at him intently.
"This doesn't look like a pleasant visit, King Zeidan of the Vampire city. Come now to the courtroom while we talk about what is bothering you," Styx laughed hardly much to the vampire's distaste as he rose from his throne, his bulging stomach protruding from his red robe.
"Follow me," Zeidan asked his men to wait for him outside while he followed, and then he disappeared into the room just behind the throne.
"Grrrrr!" A grey-colored wolf growled at the men who frowned.
Wikh stepped forward and like lightning, his face changed into a horrible monster with half his face rotten and fangs as long as a needle. His eyes are now black and his head full of smoke.
The wolves whined and retreated. Wikh transformed back into a human and adjusted his coat.
"Next time, learn your manners," he scoffed and focused on the room through which Zeidan had gone through, his gaze darker.
Luana strode across the corridor, scanning the whole place. She walked past some staff who were busy cleaning the place, while some were in charge of guarding the place.
She walked up to a room with a large and heavy metallic door. Something looked off about it and she wondered what was inside it.
Looking around, she moved closer and saw a lock just at the center which means opening it required a passcode.
She tried numerous times but didn't get it. She gave up after many trials and walked back to her room where she watched the breeze play with the grasses. She then remembered her night with Zeidan before his trip to the South Jungle.
He had come inside the room at exactly midnight looking tired but still handsome as before. She didn't look bad herself as she was wearing her lingerie and had just taken a shower and washed her hair with strawberry shampoos.
She had spread different scented flowers over the bed. Zeidan had smiled with amusement written over his face. He walked up to her on the bed, his face resting on her neck as he perceived her hair. He was lost in the softness and sweet smell. But he felt so tired.
"What do you say we make of this night?" Luana inquired as she brought up his face to meet hers, a wet smile playing on her lips.
"Whatever her ladyship pleases." He was aroused already and he couldn't wait to penetrate his soon-to-be Queen.
Tearing off his shirt, he pulled her legs so she was laying on her back. With his index finger, he trailed her thighs up to her core and played with it for a moment. He allowed her to savor each moment with her moans of pleasure.
"What do you feel?" She asked him as he trailed kisses on her neck causing her to arch her back to fit into his body.
"Nothing yet" she heard him reply but she couldn't tell if it was a lie or it was the truth. But there was only one way to find out.
She pushed him gently until he was laying on the bed and she was on him. Sitting comfortably on his hips, she trailed kisses all over his chest and face. Moments into the caress, they were both over the roof as she removed whatever was left of her clothing, and he did the same. Together they moved in unison, feeling their skin joined together. But throughout their lovemaking, if that's what she can call it, she felt like she did all the work.
Back to reality, she bit her fingers and wondered if this is it. She found love after several failed attempts. The breeze played with her hair and a few strands cover her eyes as she flashed back to many of her breakups with human men who thought she was too weird.
Then, when she thought it was time to give up on love, she found the right one. She will make sure to hold Zeidan tightly so as not to lose him.
Remembering the night again, she jerked up as she remembered Zeidan telling her the code to the room.
"...it's the name of someone that I can never forget..."
She ran to the room again and typed the word "Hail" and the door clicked open, much to her amazement.
Walking in, she was surprised at the number of technology it withheld. But amidst the whole mess, something green and shiny lay in the middle of the room on a rock. Its light illuminated the room.
As she moved close to it, she hit her right foot on an object. Looking down she picked up a pink little plastic with a few pills inside it.
Zeidan never mentioned being on any medication, she thought. However, she thought it best to keep it. Swiftly, she moved out of the room, locking the door behind her.