Part I: Welcome to Hell
Chapter 1 (Prologue)
The vampire ran his fingers along the wood. "Very good," he whispered. "I declare, Lignin gets better every year."
"Is it long enough, my lord?" asked the woman. Her face was hidden in shadow.
"Yes. Better to have it too long than too short." He smiled up at her. "You see? I do know about these things."
A hollow laugh. "Yes, my lord."
"Make it satin. Silver and crimson, with an added varnish on the lid. I want it to be…" The vampire lifted a white hand, searching for a word. "Stunning. Regal."
The woman stepped forward, still in shadow, and made another quick measurement. The tape coiled about her fingers like it was alive.
The vampire was sighing. "I confess I wish legend attached itself more closely to our kind," he said regretfully. "It must be so luxurious to sleep in one of these." His hand came down tenderly on the coffin—for it was a coffin—as if imagining his own banished rest. "But then, we should fear the sun, as well. And I do love it so."
His red eyes were dreamy, clouded. Then, with a gesture, he motioned the woman away. "Not a word," he whispered after her. "Remember…"
This is an old story that some of you may remember. I had actually forgotten about it until Diamonds and Bones brought it back to my attention. Hope you enjoy... or sort of. :( It's a sad tale.
