The Vampire's Luna

"Have you made any progress in sorting out the issue?" Veyron asked.

Damien raised a brow at him, then leaned back against the chair. "You mean about me dying?" he asked with a chuckle, the sound dry and far too casual for a man cursed with impending death. "I’ve accepted my fate. I just want to enjoy the time I have left."

"You sound like a man making peace with death," Veyron said, plopping down into the chair.

Damien smirked.

The levity faded a bit, though, as Veyron grew more serious. "Your Highness, if I may ask—Your father steps down after your marriage to the princess. You become king. If what we fear does happen... does your queen rule until the child is of age?"

"Yes, Veyron," Damien said. "But it frightens me. The trials she’ll have to face... to protect our child, to protect herself."

He rose and walked toward the window, gazing out at the city. The moon had begun to rise. Even from up here, Damien could see the torch-lit banners being hung in preparation for the wedding celebrations. It should have brought him joy.

Instead, it just felt like a countdown.

"Luna is strong," Damien said, more to himself than to Veyron. "Stronger than she knows. But the court will eat her alive the moment I’m gone. Gabriel will try to manipulate the council. And the nobles will test her loyalty with every breath."

"You don’t have to worry," Veyron said firmly. "I promise she’ll be in good hands."

Damien turned slowly, one brow raised. "Veyron... why are you so faithful to the throne?"

Veyron gave a slow, crooked smile. "Because it serves my own selfish needs."