Sophie Anne POV

I carefully stepped down the stairs descending into the corridor of my new home. The floors were gorgeous granite, and basically the only thing that remained during the transitions of royalty. While I was living in a smaller and undisclosed safe house, redecorators had been hired to completely strip the palace of the old queen's personal charms.

If I did say so myself, no matter how disrespectful to the dead, the previous Queen had dreadfully tacky décor. I couldn't help but neutralize the house and start from scratch. It was now very simple, yet elegant, much like a castle I lived in during my time in France. I was completely in love with every aspect of it, and I prayed all my visitors tonight would notice the new additions.

Hundreds watched me from below, as I took my time, letting every eye fall on me. The announcer properly introduced me, and all gave a respectful nod in my direction. I scanned the crowd, hoping that by some miracle of fate, Victor would be among the horde.

At that moment, I met not Victor's but a pair of eyes that looked very familiar. It was Eric Northman the vamp that had directly run into me the day I was chosen for Louisiana's seat. I hadn't seen him since, as he stood below me a familiar rush I hadn't felt in many years washed through me. I was excited by his presence. His tall figure stood above the rest, and his gorgeous blonde hair made him stand out even more. And his eyes, they reminded me of the one man I ever loved.

I locked eye contact with him, and slightly nodded for him to come my way as I stepped onto the last step. He nudged through the crowd, excusing himself, and apologizing to anyone he bothered. Eric stood before me at last, and I offered my hand to him.

He took it carefully and turned back towards the crowd, "Ladies and Gentlemen, The Queen of Louisiana, Sophie Anne Leclerq."

There was another applause, and as music began to play, people parted and Eric led me to the center of the floor. "May I have this dance?" He asked, a sparkle in his eye.

I started into the waltz, not answering his question with words.

I recognized this song, and another lag of nostalgia passed through me. "I was a very close friend to Mozart." I mentioned quietly, almost sad over the loss of a mortal.

A soft laugh escaped his lips, and I looked up at him. He towered almost a foot over me, and as he looked down I felt ridiculously small. I stood straight with a questioning look playing in my eyes. "I saw Mozart many times during his lifetime. I wonder if I ever came across you."

"Probably not." I responded, turning my nose slightly into the air, regaining some of confidence in this large man's company.

"And why is that?"

"I would have remembered you." I stated simply. Stopping mid step, I turned and emerged myself into the mass, two massive security guards following me, all subjects wanting to meet their new queen.

I crossed paths with many that night, a lot of which would help lead my sovereignty. As much as I wanted this night to be strictly pleasureful, I knew that wouldn't be the case. With my assistant, Sookie, always behind me I met with the Were pack leader of New Orleans. I made plans with him for lunch and a meeting next week in regards to a treaty between our two clans of supernaturals.

I met with all my sheriffs, again meeting face to face with Mr. Northman. I also scheduled a meeting with the entire lot of them, just a get together to discuss their areas and enforcements. Never being a part of this states society, I had to learn everything I could, and fast.

The entire night flew by, and the reality of my title sunk in. I was important to this race now, and in no way was I going to let them down. I shook hands with dozens as they said their farewells. I could feel the sun starting to rise, anyone of left here would have to stay in the guest quarters. I ordered Sookie to seek the servants help, and attend to my remaining guests. Sitting down, I rested for the first time all evening.

I smelled the blood before I saw that damn viking carry the glass towards me.

"My queen, it looks as though you needed a drink."

I took the crystal glass, politely thanking him. "Has Sookie told you your room number yet?"

"No. I have actually been avoiding her. She seems quite keen on me." He frowned.

I sucked a breath, suddenly nervous of what his response maybe. "Really? This is a problem why?"

"She's simply obnoxious. Far to loud for my liking."

I nodded, relaxing, and completely agreeing with him. "I think it's time for me to retire for the night."

He stood up, as I did, steadying me and letting me go as I walked away. "Would you lik-?"

I cut him off, smiling over my shoulder back at him. "Goodnight Eric."