So, this is a companion to Skin to Bone, just a one-shot about Draco and Riath, and the vampires in general. It gives a bit of insight into the culture of the German vampire clan Riath was born into. Also, yes Riath speaks fluent German, and will use it in later chapters of Skin to Bone, mostly to converse with other vampires.
-Hero
December 24, 1993
Draco Malfoy stood outside the gates of the massive castle, Krypta der Nacht, or the Crypt of Night. Though the Delta Coven did not officially celebrate Christmas, the German vampire clan enjoyed the season, exchanged gifts, and decorated. The fortress' usual flags, emblazoned with a blood red dragon and a green serpent, had been replaced with massive wreaths of holly, and magic lights in red and green decked the battlements.
As he stepped through the gates, he was greeted by the sight of his cousin, Riath Daevon Giullare Dracul, sparring with another vampire in the snowy courtyard. Riath's hair was tied back, and his dark armor and red cloak covered his body. His sword flashed in the lights as he wove in and out, dueling the other vampire. She struck back, her green cloak. Riath dodge her blow, and swept her legs out. As she fell to the ground, he slashed lightly across her breastplate with his sword, signifying his victory.
Draco and Riath stood in the crowd of vampires, watching as snow fell from the gray sky, coating Krypta der Nacht. The people of the Delta Coven stood, as Christmas began, in the of the night, starlight leaking through the clouds.
Stille Nacht, Heil'ge Nacht
Alles schläft; einsam wacht
Nur das traute hoch heilige Paar.
Holder Knab' im lockigen Haar,
Schlafe in himmlischer Ruh
Stille Nacht, Heil'ge Nacht
Gottes Sohn, o wie lacht
Lieb' aus deinem göttlichen Mund,
Da uns schlägt die rettende Stund'
Jesus in deiner Geburt