20. PARTY TIME

PARTY TIME

T hree months later...

"Balthazar is acting like a deranged toddler, my king," Caemorn remarked.

Both of them watched said "deranged toddler" pinball around the royal courtyard where human and Vampire leaders awkwardly socialized with one another. The humans sipped champagne and nibbled on canapes while the Vampires, for the most part, conspicuously ate and drank nothing at all.

Humans were very leary when it came to Vampires feeding in any form. Daemon had noted that somehow even Vampires partaking in normal food and drink caused consternation in the mortals. Maybe it was because humans sensed that the Vampires received no nourishment, or even much delight, from the consumption and wanted for other food. But, regardless of what or who the Vampires would eat or not eat, the very best gourmet provisions had been provided for the dignitaries and world leaders that had signed onto the Blood Pact that night.

The Blood Pact wasn't really its name. The real title of the agreement was something long and officious, but Daemon knew that everyone thought of it as the Blood Pact and that was sufficient. The Pact laid out rules for Vampire feeding and turning. As a central component of the Pact it had been established that the Ever Dark Academy would be the sole place where the Bloodlines would choose their fledglings. The first class was to come to the academy in less than a single Earth week. There had been enough applicants to fill over a hundred such classes even as many others protested its very existence.

But neither reaction was unexpected.

He could feel Seeyr's cooling presence in his mind as she walked amongst the guests with the ease of a Vampire with eyes, but Sophia stayed next to her side, making sure that her Mistress' path was always clear. Meffy was in her arms as if an additional part of her wardrobe.

Seeyr was a familiar figure to these people as she, along with Balthazar, had done much of the negotiating of the Blood Pact. The future had taken shape under her clever fingers as she sculpted what each side would give and get and how it would all shake out on the world stage. Daemon felt a frisson of excitement at the challenges to come.

"Balthazar is alarming the guests," Caemorn continued dryly as he and Daemon surveyed the crowd under the twin moons of the Ever Dark.

They stood in a corner of the courtyard. There was no dais, no rope line, no guards keeping anyone away from him or Caemorn, but there was at least six feet of space around them at all times. While the world leaders were eager to speak to him and Caemorn, Daemon kept a command of "keep back" mentally going out to all and sundry. He wanted the humans to go through his very qualified people, like Balthazar.

"Balthazar is merely being sociable," Daemon countered, hiding the faint smile on his lips from the other Immortal. It was his secret--or perhaps not so secret--pleasure to watch Caemorn and Balthazar interact with one another. They were his favorite odd couple.

"He is being something ," Caemorn muttered.

Even amidst the violet and white blooms, the blue-white light cast from the torches, and the gilding rays of the red and blue moons, Balthazar stood out. While most of the other Vampires were dressed in modern clothing he looked like an exotic flower in his dark blue waistcoat, tight pants and knee-high boots dyed the same midnight shade. A white, high-collared shirt that came up to the base of his chin framed his handsome face. His skin looked almost alabaster pale while his lips were far redder than normal due to a careful application of makeup. With his dazzling silver eyes and waves of sleek hair, he looked very similar to Tom Cruise in the movie, Interview With a Vampire . Julian had explained this film to him and the reason that Balthazar was affecting this particular "vampiric" look.

"It's what they will expect," Julian had said as both of them had dressed for that evening's gala.

"They think that looks more evocative of a Vampire than this one?" Daemon had pointed to his long wolf fur coat that was slung over an ottoman.

A smile played across Julian's lips as a faint wheeze of laughter escaped him. "No, I think that your particular fashion sense is very evocative of Vampire-kind. But the rakish fop that Balthazar will resemble is more familiar to them because of the media."

Daemon, though, had continued to frown. "I begin to think you do not like my coat."

Julian turned to look over at him as he clicked one of the silver cufflinks in his dark crimson shirt closed. His expression was one of surprise that Daemon cared so deeply about his approval of what he wore and even deeper affection. His fledgling glided over to him and slid his arms around Daemon's neck.

"I love your wolf coat," Julian promised and sealed that with a kiss on the lips. "In fact, I love nothing more than you completely naked wearing only it."

Daemon's eyes hooded as they kissed more even as Julian's slid completely shut. When Julian opened his eyes they were more red than violet. Daemon had cut his tongue so that a touch of his blood had flavored their kiss.

"Perhaps I shall oblige you by wearing that exact outfit tonight," Daemon challenged, knowing his fledgling's--and seemingly most modern people's--feelings on nudity. It would be more than amusing to see the humans attempt to ignore his otherness then.

Julian let out one of those delightful wheeze-laughs even as his cheeks colored. But he lifted his chin up and shrugged. "Whatever you like."

Daemon pursed his lips. "Hmmmm."

"What?" Julian was outright laughing now.

"I am half inclined to prance around the fountain tonight naked just to make you laugh like this again." Daemon cupped Julian's face, running his thumbs along the smooth planes of those beloved cheeks.

Julian's face immediately lit up and his mind filled with the fireworks of love and desire. Daemon felt a deep sense of rightness. He had known he had been lonely in Nightvallen before having a fledgling, but now that Julian was here, he realized it had been a stark, empty existence in comparison. Julian leaned fully against him, letting Daemon easily bear his weight.

"You must not be nervous interviewing your parents tonight on your show," Daemon said quietly.

Julian and Christian had decided to document the Harrows' journey in becoming Vampires. It would be a great PR piece according to Rajani and House Wynter was eager to promote it to the world. They would film the first episode that night and release it for everyone to see.

Julian gave a half smile. "It's weird. Christian and I have lived in front of the camera for years, but I'm a little anxious this time."

"You started your show to prove your parents were murdered by Vampires so going back to it now…" Daemon paused, "would be understandably fraught."

"Yeah, but I think that's why it's so important that I do this," Julian said.

"You and Christian will make people understand us better. There are many misconceptions about us already out there," Daemon remarked.

Julian's expression soured briefly. There had been riots in several cities with people storming the streets with wooden stakes, crosses, holy water, and of all things, garlic . This last one truly perplexed Daemon. He supposed they thought it would cause some kind of allergic reaction. But the real danger, he knew, would be when those same people realized that none of those things were effective against Vampires and the dread of impossibly powerful immortal beings walking among them was truly brought home.

"You heard about the--the suicides, right? That religious group that gathered together and…" Julian shivered.

"Yes, I heard." He stroked Julian's back.

The group had set fire to the building they had all huddled in as they expected the world to end. There had been over 100 people lost, including 25 children.

"Which is why I have to make sure tonight's show is perfect ." Julian clenched his jaw. "I have to show them that we're not demons here to destroy them. Really show people the pros and cons about becoming a Vampire so it's understandable to most everyone."

"There will always be those who distrust us. Some rightfully so. But self-destruction and violence will not be tolerated," Daemon said quietly. "Watching your parents go through the process will soothe many fears."

Julian nodded a little jerkily. "I know my parents are professionals at this so I have no worries about them. I just want to make you proud and represent us in the best light."

Daemon again smoothed his thumb over Julian's cheek. "I have no doubts, Julian. I am proud already."

His gaze now swung to the Vampire Prince who chatted easily with his parents, the President of India and the British Prime Minister. Both countries had considerable fears of a too large Vampire population and how it would exacerbate inequality. They were pressing this point with Julian. They already sensed that this first family of Vampires would influence people greatly.

"Vampires already exist in the world," Julian patiently explained. "Remember, the only thing that's changed is your awareness of that fact. So any inequality Vampires existing creates is already present."

Joanna Harrow added, "And with the existence of the school, there will be the added benefits of people being chosen from all walks of life rather than simply people a single Vampire meets. It will, in fact, lessen some of that inequality."

Jack Harrow smoothly interjected, "Not to mention that all possible psychological issues will be screened out now that Eyros and Seeyr Vampires will be involved in all selections of fledglings so it will be safer in general."

The British Prime Minister pursed his lips at the mention of psychological issues. "Yes, we were wondering about how many serial killers--"

"Vampires are not serial killers," Julian firmly interrupted.

"Not even one ?" The Indian President, a thin man with a thinner mustache, asked.

Julian shrugged, conceding the point that there could have been one . "Vampires needed to keep their existence a secret. A Vampire who killed indiscriminately put all at risk. So they had to police themselves. If such a being was found, they were… eliminated."

"You speak so casually of death of your own kind," the British Prime Minister said.

"No, on the contrary. I think it's tragic. But the Vampires-- we --understand that with the great power, essentially, comes great responsibility," Julian said.

Daemon sent him a wave of approval. His Childe was doing well in the spotlight. There was a mental embrace from Julian just before Christian came over.

"The interview area is almost set," Christian said and gestured towards a couch and chair setup in the corner of the courtyard.

House Wynter people were swarming over the seating area, adjusting lights and helping to set up multiple cameras.

"Great. We should head over there," Julian said. "Get prepared."

"I think Balthazar is causing General Rinochet some alarm," Caemorn said softly, drawing Daemon's attention from his Childe back to the Eyros Vampire.

"Ah, yes, I see what you mean," Daemon replied.

Balthazar had just pinned the French general practically up against the fantastical fountain and was quizzing him--in perfect French--about his family, friends and that mistress that he had on the side. The general swallowed often as he stared at Balthazar's mouth as he spoke. The Eyros Vampire had his fangs out though he was smiling.

"He is most certainly enjoying himself," Daemon repeated with a chuckle.

"He is enjoying himself too much," Caemorn objected mildly, but there was a touch of censure in his tone.

Daemon lifted an eyebrow. "Is there such a thing?"

Caemorn stood very straight and crossed his arms behind his back. "He is undermining the--the seriousness of his position and--"

"You mean the position that you two share?" Daemon reminded him.

Caemorn's lips flattened. "Yes, that we share as joint headmasters of Ever Dark Academy."

Balthazar had now left the general and fluttered over to a Chinese official who though, likely as alarmed as the French general, managed to hide it by being excessively rigid. The Eyros Vampire flashed those fangs again as he spoke this time in fluent Mandarin about secrets the official had kept even from her party bosses. She visibly swayed for a moment. Balthazar steadied her with a touch on her arm and said he would be happy to discuss these matters further if necessary.Daemon was sure that any objections from that quarter would now be neutralized.

"I sense that you are still uncertain as to my plan for you to work together, Caemorn," Daemon said, drawing his attention back to the other Immortal's concerns.

"I am only wishing to serve you in the best possible way I can, and if you believe that working with Balthazar is that way then I fully accept it," Caemorn answered.

Daemon could feel the tumult in Caemorn. On the one hand, Caemorn resented the idea that he should have to share this position with anyone. He wanted to prove himself to Daemon. Yet at the same time, Caemorn did not believe he deserved such trust. Perhaps it would be better to be overseen, especially by Balthazar who knew him so well and was his foil.

"I have ultimate faith in you, Kaly," Daemon answered the unasked question. "Eyros is not your minder. He is not your jailer. You both are my most trusted counselors."

Caemorn did not jerk in surprise at Daemon's understanding of his true concerns. But there was a slight lessening in the tight line of his shoulders as the words were welcome.

"I see, my king. I appreciate your faith in me." Caemorn rolled his shoulders back.

"I believe that the two of you, working together, will make a formidable team," Daemon explained. "Already make one, in fact."

Balthazar was now chatting fangally with the President of the United States of America. The president kept touching the collar of his tuxedo as Balthazar discussed the finer points of espionage, especially the spies that had applied to the academy under very false pretenses. The Secret Service was shifting uncomfortably as well.

"That may be true, my king, but I fear he will trigger an international incident before this team will have its chance at a first semester," Caemorn murmured with a dry purse of his lips.

"His goal is to unnerve them," Daemon stated.

"Should it not be to assure them that we are willing to follow rules in regards to feeding and turning?" Caemorn asked, a frown appearing on his lips.

"That's your job," Daemon said. "Balthazar is to be the wild card. To remind them that we are not like them. Not really. And so they should not be so sure of us at any given moment."

Caemorn considered this. "It is an unusual choice to make Balthazar the one to remind them that we are not human. Surely, me , with my gift with the dead, would unnerve them more naturally."

"Ah, but, Caemorn, they expect to be unnerved by a Kaly Vampire, but to think that one such as Balthazar--with all his exotic plumage--is an unknown quantity too will doubly unnerve them," Daemon answered.

Caemorn nodded after a moment, satisfied with the explanation. "That is clever."

"We must keep them back on their heels," Daemon said. "They must never be too sure of anything. For all our strength, there are more of them than us and sunlight is still our enemy."

Caemorn nodded again. At that moment, Balthazar left the president of the United States and swept over to them. There was a Cheshire cat grin on his handsome face. He grabbed a glass of champagne from a nearby silver tray. Daemon was amused as the humans stared at the flute filled with golden liquid as if it should be another color.

"Hello, Balthazar," Daemon said. "Chatting up our guests is thirsty work, I see."

"Indeed!" There was a fresh look of pleasure on Balthazar's face. "In contrast, you two are wallflowers!"

"We are merely observing our guests and making sure everyone is having a good time," Caemorn corrected.

"You are frightening the guests away! You both look beautiful, of course, but so imposing! You should engage like I do! Be approachable!" Balthazar chuckled and drained his glass of champagne. He immediately set down the empty flute and grabbed another, his silver eyes glittering.

"I think you are doing quite enough for all of us in terms of socializing," Caemorn's voice was desert dry.

"I knew you would think that! But did Daemon explain--"

"I did, Balthazar. You are doing an excellent job," Daemon assured him.

Balthazar's silver gaze swept over the crowd. "There are so many that want to talk to you. But I think that it is good to play hard to get." He turned back to them both with a mischievous grin that had Caemorn stiffening, clearly knowing that there was some teasing coming. "So! Have you complimented Caemorn on his outfit , not to mention his new clean-shaven look, Daemon?"

Caemorn was dressed in a blood-red long coat that came to his knees. It was cut to skim his torso and flared at the bottom. Ornate silver buttons and piping accentuated the look. Black pants and boots encased his long, muscular legs. His goatee was now gone. He looked younger without it. More angelic really, which would amuse Caemorn no end. Or perhaps it would worry him as Artemis-Kaly had often been referred to as a celestial being. But, of course, there was something of Artemis-Kaly in Caemorn now.

Caemorn's eyes flared with alarm. "Balthazar, there is no need to--"

"He really wants you to notice him!" Balthazar sounded gleeful. "He took special care, Daemon, to look perfect just for you!"

Caemorn's pale cheeks flamed and he shot Balthazar a lethal look. "I did not--"

"I did notice both," Daemon interrupted smoothly. "You've chosen red as Kaly's new color."

Caemorn gave a curt nod. "Black seemed--"

"Cliche?" Balthazar chuckled.

Caemorn glared at him. "Like the past . I wanted something vibrant. Lively."

"Bloody!" Balthazar grinned.

"Life-giving." Caemorn sniffed.

"Well, I approve. And you look quite handsome--as always--but I do enjoy you without facial hair," Daemon said warmly.

Caemorn stared at the ground. "I wanted to make a physical break with the past."

"New look. New you," Balthazar said.

"Exactly." Another narrow-eyed glance at Balthazar.

"I thought it might also be because you've read too much YA fiction." Balthazar polished the fingernails of his right hand against his waistcoat.

Caemorn's narrow-eyed gaze was sharp as a dagger. "What do you mean--"

"With all the new Bloodline crests and the colors!" Balthazar continued gleefully on.

"We discussed this," Caemorn said. "Each Bloodline needed a greater sense of lineage. People align themselves with sports teams and--"

" Harry Potter houses--"

"--so they can identify with a group they admire the traits of and--"

"We're going to even have uniforms!" Balthazar burbled. "Which will allow me to indulge a few student-teacher fantasies with Christian."

Christian must have heard that as his head lifted and turned from where he was seated with Julian and the elder Harrows. He shook his head and continued talking. Balthazar let out a bark of delighted laughter.

"You must take this seriously, Balthazar," Caemorn said repressively.

"Oh, I am! I think school uniforms are deadly serious and sexy! Also, I do love my crest!" Balthazar pointed out an embroidered crest on his coat. "We're going to have all sorts of merchandise made."

"It must not be tacky." Caemorn did not look though as if he believed Balthazar capable of anything that wasn't tacky.

"Of course not! I'm having underwear made that has the crest on each buttcheek!" Balthazar enthused. "There will be a pair or two for you in your rooms in the Eyros Palace, Caemorn!"

Caemorn pinched the top of his nose but said nothing.

Balthazar continued on, "But what I'm really looking forward to is quite beyond the physical trappings of our little academy."

"What do you mean?" Caemorn asked warily.

"It will be the moment when I welcome our first class and say: may the odds be ever in your favor!" Balthazar grinned.

"You will not say that," Caemorn muttered.

"But it is true! The fun and games we have in store for everyone… well, one will need luck to make it through." Balthazar rubbed his hands together.

Daemon's gaze alighted on a large figure stalking his way across the courtyard. The man was huge with a shock of black hair and beard. He favored fur and leather. He moved with the oiled grace of a panther. Six other Vampires flanked him as he led them effortlessly. Both Caemorn and Balthazar had gone quiet.

"Lord Ryder," Balthazar said the name with little inflection to show his feelings about the Weryn Vampire. "He's been chosen to represent the Bloodline at the school."

"In protest, of course." Caemorn's silver eyes narrowed at the shape-shifting Weryn Vampires who held themselves very much apart from the rest of the group.

"Of course. They think the rules shouldn't apply to them," Balthazar remarked with a twist of his lips. "That they are special."

Daemon did not share the anger his fellow Immortals did about the Weryn testing him. It was welcome.

"They are special. As are all our children," Daemon remarked. "But they will find that does not mean they are exempt from my rule. I am king."

"Damn right you are," Balthazar agreed with a grin. "Ah, looks like Christian and Julian are about to start the show. Let's go over and see what's what. Shall we?"