Author's Note: This chapter is semi M rated for language, read with cautions. Hope you enjoy.

"Dialogues"

Thoughts

Another language

Inner Demon

Chapter 4

The whole ballroom was wrapped up a cloak of a deadly silence and intense animosity, for it seemed that the aura and profile this woman held was feared (over feared) by even the most brute vampires present in the hall. The whole loud chatters of the room had long diminished into soft murmurs of gossips and rumors. My attempts in order to neglect them turned in vain, some were obviously clear to hear; they spoke of both awe and disdain. In my regards, the presence of this isolated Countess was changing from an eccentric issue into something akin to a fatal peril.

How dare SHE enter this ball? I spat venom at her, hoped that my piercing glare would tear her bloody heart into shreds. And that idiot…My attentions drifted toward Dracula's scowled visage. His dark crimson eyes were blazing with animosity that I hardly see him wear when present in public. I barked a silent, bitter laugh at him.

You've invited her, a guest whom you have sworn to never involve with your affairs. Now that she has arrived according to YOUR invitation, you grimace?! Too late for regrets, my old foolish friend. I spat.

When my eyes returned to focus on her crimson-wrapped attire, I swear, I felt my stomach churn in disgust. Her whole being was so filthy and reeked of infinite lust that I wondered not even in a thousand of years, baptizing her in Holy Water would ever grant her salvation or atonement for her sins. How many people had she killed? In the blood of how many sacrificed virgins did she bath? The blood of how many young men did she wantonly drink? What things had she done till now in the name of the vampires' society?

My train of thoughts was suddenly interrupted by her sultry voice. "The greatest lives and bloods of world shall be presented upon our mighty King. Long live he, for our joy and grief depends on his darkest life." She proudly bowed like a mighty Princess before her King. Her blazing lustful eyes shimmered and gleamed in a deep crimson color under the candles' lights casted upon her hellish visage.

When she stood in her full height to meet the King's eyes, Dracula was smiling at her almost bitterly. Her smile fell a bit for the silence she received as answer. I saw D clearing his throat, and the small gesture granted him the attention of the Bloody Countess who turned to gaze at him bemused. After all, he was the King of tonight's ball and deserved to receive the guests directly himself. The bloody rubies of Carmella studied the young boy who sat on the throne like an elegant King. His little hands tightened on the arms' rests a bit when he found her eyes swallowing his little form with her wanton eyes. Her vermillion lips formed a joyful beam, letting her fangs become a wee visible through keen observation.

"I see," she bowed again and this time, to my surprise, she took a gentle hold of one of D's small hands. I found myself and Dracula on guard of her sudden action. In our point of view, we thought that her intentions were to harm the boy, but she only brought his hand close to her lips and kissed the back of D's white knuckles.

HOW DARE YOU? FINGERS AWAY FROM MY SON! I glared at her furiously.

"The new King does hold certain great presence as well as great importance. My apologies for neglecting such precious privilege bestowed upon me tonight." She smiled while looking at the pale and soft skin of the small Prince.

Gently and politely withdrawing his hand, D held back a sweat of anxiety by this unexpected act. He rested his hand on the previous position and made a serious face under his trembling visage. "Welcome Countess_" He paused.

"Carmella, Milord." She straitened herself again, that mischievous smile was still plastered on her pale countenance. Oh, how I wished to wipe it off from that grotesque face. "I am Countess Carmella, the Bloody Countess in this world, Milord. As I shall assume, you are the Young prince of our blessed King… The young Dracula." She said his name! D frowned dangerously at her, hands gripping the arm's rests so hard that I heard some cracks beneath those tender fingers.

Hate to break it to you but if she doesn't stop chewing the kid before us, then I won't show her mercy when tearing her apart!

I do not appreciate her hateful presence as well, but blame the one inviting her here.

Still the same insane buffoon as he is, luring the lion into the nest while the trainer is unarmed to hold the beast at bay. He always enjoyed playing reckless…

"Yes, you are very welcome in my world, as you are also a member of this family my Countess." Dracula's voice interrupted us. Although he tried to sound serious as ever, yet it would seem like that he didn't like the situation at all too. As for D, I could tell that he wanted down from that damned throne more than any time. I speculated that after this incident, he would swear to never attend any balls like this again, let alone sitting on the throne which I did no longer blame him.

Quite frankly, I do believe that Drac shall have no further objections to this matter as well.

"My thank you for you kindness, Milord." Her smile brightened more and revealed her full fangs. I saw D's shoulders tensed, and I was getting at edge too, though couldn't risk lashing out at her; one wrong move and my presence would be disrespectfully announced to everyone. That was unnecessary and even troublesome, we didn't want to start a fight here. And besides, having one hell cat in the hall was more than enough.

"It is my greatest pleasure to meet the Kings of our lands. I have been looking forward to meet the Prince for so long, and now that my wish has been fulfilled… I shall ask for no more." Her ruby eyes didn't leave D's frozen blue eyes, not once. "I dare say that this young Prince will be an extraordinary King worthy us subjects." She placed a dramatic hand on her chest, almost swooning in delight.

"I now may announce my oath now if that glorious day would nigh, that if you do become our mighty King… I… Countess Carmella shall stand by your side at your servitude, to aid you in your most difficult times, and guide you passionately throughout your life… anytime and anywhere." She bowed her head.

What the HELL is this_

Witch… language my friend…language!

W-W-Witch TALKING ABOUT?

This was a terrible event. All the room began to fill with loud chatters again. This filthy woman, made a vow by words to be at D's side when he becomes a King. The unfortunate truth was, I heard that if a woman in her Nobility would vow to a prince at the age of D _illegal to gain authority and in need of temporary guardianship_ then it would mean that she will have to wait till he comes off age, then she'll be announced as his official mate for the rest of his life. The problem was that the Bloody Countess Carmella had given this vow out of honor; which meant it was done in a semi-solemn form and therefore, irreversible.

Surely I had seen her true intentions; she had smelt D's blood and since he was a dhampir, his human blood was stronger and purer than ordinary mortals, desired by even Nobles. This woman was of no exemption as well, and she had impudently taken pleasure in his presence.

Even if it was possible, she would have mated with him right here if D had come off of age.

That whore!

Glancing at Dracula, I saw something that I never imagined to see…his forehead was bed with sweat and his jaw was tight. The small curve on his upper lip indicated the length of his fangs which had grown. I thought that maybe her scent had triggered his vampiric instincts, but the truth was that his eyes were showing concern and…fear! Yes, Carmella was someone to be feared.

"No you can't give such a vow in such EARLY time, Carmella!" Shouted one of the Countesses from the crowd. When she came into view, a young maiden of no more than seventeen was displayed, tall and mundane; a delicate flower she was I dare say. The young girl had long blonde hair cascading down in a waterfall of gold around her deep violet eyes, dressed in fine lilac gown, but her snarling at the Countess didn't make her appear any less different than the filthy woman.

"The Prince is too young to be engaged with such LUDICUROUS vows." She seemed to be very well informed by this ceremony and I couldn't help but to bit back a laugh.

The air is about to smell the stench of rivalry!

"Viola is right." Came another young girl dressed in quite exorcist golden gown which showed a bit of her skin under that light satin. "We are aware of this well. The prince should be old enough in order to be agreed." She explained. Her waist long black mane sparkled in the chandelier which illuminated lovingly on her. Her golden eyes began to blaze with a tint of hatred.

"STELLA! Do not be naïve in the presence of the Kings!" A young Duke, apparently in his late thirties, stepped forward beside the golden vampiresses. "DO you not KNOW that is rude to be_"

"NO FATHER!… If she can vow, then there are plenty of younger vampiresses like me and my sister who want to be at the Prince's side." She yelled.

"I will vow too." Another beautiful green gowned one declared. And soon the ball was filled with arguments of young girls being in conflict for the Prince's hand, more likely, over his heart. I sighed bemused at the childish display and stole a glance at D. His expression was an obvious confused and shocked one. He was more than anyone oblivious from the sudden disorder.

Ah little one, if only you knew the truth, surely you would have already escaped this madhouse… Yes, sometimes ignorance is a bliss after all.

"The Prince shall have my aid first." Said Carmella in a heated tone. All the young dazzling flowers in the hall turned their piercing glares toward her, the silent swear of killing this Noble at the very instance wasn't so bizarre to assume. "You all shall have to wait for me to vanish until you could dream to be at the Prince's side. He needs to be taken good care," She landed her dark mischievous rubies on the young D again. "And I am experienced enough to lend him essential information as well as great lessons." She huskily whispered. My blood was beginning to boil, my hands were tightening so much that blood began to trail down my fingers, and my heart pounded heavily in my chest.

Gasps and growls emitted from amidst the assembled crowed and though the dazzling maidens were at the threshold of lashing out at the Bloody Countess, but no one dared advancing her of fright and awe. Insulting and utilizing inciting words was not rude, but causing bloodshed in the presence of the Sacred Ancestor was like crossing the red line.

"HOW DARE YOU?"

"OVER OUR DEAD BODIES CAN YOU_"

"THAT'S ENOUGH!" Dracula's cold voice cut into the air like a sharp sword. I myself knew when his ice like voice interrupts the events: He was furious…

"I do appreciate this most astonishing support for my son." His voice sent chills down the whole crowed and even Carmella dropped her hideous smile. "Your supports and kindness will be considered greatly, but," He turned to face Carmella, "I shall pick the Noblewoman, worthy of my son's level…if he once wishes to become a King… MYSELF!" The last word echoed like a solid warning, loud enough for everyone to learn their rightful places.

"Yes, Milord." The union of the sounds came in perfect intonation. It appeared that everyone had comprehended the hidden meaning of their King's inclination. Carmella bowed her head as well and went into the crowed, making the dense atmosphere diminish gradually and turn into that cheerful state.

D cleared his throat, "I would like to thank you all for these efforts and supports as well. Now, I wish you all to have a great evening…enjoy!" He exhaled a breath. Everyone cheered and clapped their hands. To D's surprise, he received multiple bows in respect. It didn't take time till everyone scattered from that circle they had made and occupied themselves with enjoyable activities.

"Roxana!" I heard Drac call my name. Making myself visible, I stood beside him.

"You called?"

"Yes. Make sure you'll accompany D till the rest of the night." He gazed at me sternly. "Surely I must let you know that Camellia is here and I do not like that leach near my son." His jaw tightened.

I, fully knowing the dominance of the situation, nodded my head. "Understood!"

D coming down from the throne, came by my side with a proud smile on his lips, extending his hand for me to hold. I held his small hand and when I was about to lead him to the crowed, I heard Dracula call. "D!"

"Yes, father." He turned around.

"Thank you," the king smiled, warmly. "That was a splendid display." He proudly commented, and if you ask me, I dare say that those were one of the many scarce moments which Dracula showed his kind and paternal smile. A very precious moment indeed…

D only turned his face away so that his father wouldn't see his flustered expression. I smiled at him and made our way to the dancing couples, hearing Drac exhaling a tired sigh when he sat on his throne before disappearing in the crowd.

The night went on with no further berserk happenings and I spent the time keeping D occupied with talking, gossiping, and dancing. He had so much fun, the joyous smile never left his beautiful angelic face. Much to my disappointment, Carmella's hungry eyes followed D everywhere he went. Her bolt, imprudent expressions and desires made me vow something: I'll make her regret the day she laid eyes on this child.

This countess' fate must be decided soon or else, I might do a thing that would be against Dracula's rules.

After dining, Dracula sang a song which filled the hall by many more chatters. It was believed that the song was made by his wife, D's beautiful human mother, the dazzling Lady Mina the Fair. D's expression was filled with longing and sadness all the time and it took me time till I managed to cheer his moods again. I remembered those words well…

"Knowing neither life nor death,
Therefore, I call thee by his name
Thou art the distant one"

Everyone was honored by hearing it as it was a scarce opportunity bestowed upon them by their King, and all applauded the mighty Sacred Ancestor. It didn't take long till the guests decided to leave and give the owner a peace to have before sunrise appears. Every single one of the Nobles bade farewells and thanked Dracula for the splendid event. He likewise, thanked them for coming and handed them small gifts. Carmella had left without any farewells or anyone's notice, and the King didn't mind at all. The Bloody Countess had made a lot more damage than enough. This woman had drawn more energy out of him than a fight with a horde of werewolves -_-;

After the evacuation of the mansion, I brought D to his bed. He was so tired and exhausted that he didn't have any more energy to stay up and talk out the events. After all, it was unneeded as I was with him the whole time, knowing fully whatever occurred. Finished with dressing him for bed, I placed his sleepy form under the warm blankets and kissed his forehead. He immediately fell asleep soundly. Not intending to interrupt his peaceful slumber, I started for the ballroom. To my expectation, Dracula was sitting on his throne, worn out, exhausted and anxious. His hand was covering his face so his eyes were concealed behind his palm. His posture as a beaten King who's plan for a war had gone futile.

Feeling my presence, he raised his face from under his hand and sighed tiredly. I walked up to him and looked around the messed up hall. "Quite the event you made." I humored.

His solemn face didn't change at all. He used to bit back with a sarcastic reply just to humiliate me, but this time no inciting answer came. Walking around a bit, the only sound of my hills colliding with the stony floor echoed in the air.

"I need you to do me a favor." His voice, a gentle whisper, almost like a plea.

"I always do favors. What is it this time?" I cheekily smirked.

His ruby eyes fell on my own crimson orbs. "Carmella is a big peril to the world of my people."

"So?" I walked to him again and rested an elbow on his shoulder. "Her presence is unneeded, I presume."

"Yes, but let me rephrase your statement, her presence was unneeded." He emphasized the word.

Knitting my eyebrows in bewilderment, I questioned him. "What do you mean, was?"

He sighed. "I had sent her an invitation like the rest, but with an extra warning. I stated that if she won't vow to me in the presence of everyone to leave her blood-lust, I shall behead her as her punishment and put her as an example for those who shall disobey my orders." He explained.

I failed to get the main gist. "Well, she got the invitation… came here… but as I recall, she vowed to serve D as her future mate, which we all didn't get into details for D's sake… …No vows of giving up her blood-lust!" I concluded.

"Yes, that is the part where went wrong." He bitterly answered.

Backfired to be exact!

"Drac, is there something more than just an engagement into that vow that I'm not aware of?" I was growing impatience.

"Unfortunately, yes." He closed his eyes heavily and a frown knitted his eyebrows.

"Mind to spill the beans?" I stood before him with my arms crossed over my chest.

"If a Countess in the age of Carmella and a reputation like hers would be vowing in the presence of a King and all other of his subjects of her hidden proposal, she will be officially owned by the Prince whom she proposed to." The words felt like invisible strikes that cut through my heart, the pains they caused were deep enough to prove that fact.

"That means, Carmella is now under… D's orders?" I let the disgusting words escape my mouth in an inquiry.

"Unfortunately, yes. She had found a great plan to deceive us all and take things toward her advantage. I even as a King can't hold her back any longer." He rubbed a hand on his handsome visage. "Since D should not know anything about this bond, he can't prevent her to lose her blood-lust." He closed his hands under his chin in thoughts. "Also, there is this problem that I can't kill her."

"WHAT?" I exclaimed, sighing frustrated.

"This oath was like a sacred ceremony. Like the matrimony of marriage for humans, for vampires in order to find old Countesses great Kings and Princes. This ceremony has been part of the Vampires' traditions for years before my birth. She has used an ancient boundary with my son. She shall not breathe for a second in my world, but I can't break the law as what my people might think of their King." He anxiously ran his hands into his hair.

Digesting the information, I felt a certain irony in this whole ordeal. In addition to that, something was missing, a piece, a part of a great puzzle. If Carmella has been smart enough to figure how to turn the tables toward herself, then surely I am smarter to undo and clean up the deck before she gets the ace.

What are you intending to do? Don't tell me you're going to use THAT method AGAIN?

Getting to a determined conclusion, I turned towards Dracula's exhausted and mortified face. "Where is your sword?" I demanded.

"Which sword?" he watched me with confused eyes.

"The sword," I mentioned to him that I was indicating the well-made sword forged by his own hands millennia years ago. "The Golden Dragon!" I smiled evilly.
Blinking a few times, Dracula regarded me with an oblivious, yet suspicious look. "What are you up to?"

Sighing again, I strolled toward him with graceful steps, eyeing him to ensure he was watching me on purpose. "One of your guests had been rude enough to complain that the ancient sword of the King has probably gone dull that he refuses to show it to us. I was wondering if it was true, that's all." I pouted innocently.

"Woman, I am NOT in the mood of your childish jests. And anyway, I do not understand why you came up with the thought of my sword out of the blue?" He waved his hand dismissively.

"Hey, you even refuse to show it to me too, ya know! I thought maybe the rumors are right after all?" I began to draw small circles on his chest, humming and sighing disappointed.

With a slight gentle snap of his fingers, the mighty golden sword appeared in its master's hands.

Great job! You lied and persuaded him again!

Shut it!

"You mean this?" He gazed at the handcraft he once took great pleasure and pride to forge. The mighty Golden Sword which was the most ancient treasure the Draculean Household held in its abdomen. It was that noble sword which aided Drac in his long battles with the Ottomans in the past. The double edged sword which appeared like a long and sharp tongue from the mouth of the dragon head, gleamed handsomely in the chandelier, and those blazing rubies nestled as the eyes of the beast matched its master's blood colored orbs.

"This was the best battle companion I had when I was protecting Transylvania. It has been so long that I hadn't laid eyes on it." The golden surface gleamed in the candle light, reflecting the slight remorseful look its master casted on it. "They are fools to even DARE thinking about this weapon, let alone speaking of it. And what are you_"

Yes, but I have to borrow it my friend. I hope you will forgive me?

"WHAT THE_"

Before my dear nemesis could bath in the visions of the past, and continue admiring its beauty, I stole it from his hands and made my way to the double doors, before he could commence chasing behind me.

Although, I heard him shout from afar. "WAIT? You can't kill her if that's what you are thinking?! She is quite old…and powerful!… so much that not even I know. GET BACK HERE!" He yelled.

"But she's not as old and powerful as I am." I answered before dematerializing into a murky dust and vanishing into thin air, leaving a startled Count to his isolation to ponder over my actions and the soon coming ordeals. Those crimson painted lips trembled slightly when a sudden thought crossed the King's mind.

"Don't tell me you are going to really_" Dracula's gasp was heard by my keen ears and before he could put the magical barriers to prevent my escape, I left the castle walls.

Watch out Countess Carmella! Your biggest nightmare is on its way to your mansion. Enjoy the remaining hours of your life, for I am… going to END it.

To Be Continued...

AN: Yeah things are going to get nasty! Hope you have enjoyed this chapter as well and please, I appreciate if you leave me your reviews so that I know if you like this story or not ^_^. I forgot to mention, The song which Dracula sings is an actual song in one of the novels written by the famous Vampire Hunter D author, Hideyuki Kikuchi. There is a moment in Dark Road where D sings the song for Madame Laurencin while she was flying above the hunter. That would be a very interesting sight to witness, D singing o/-/o;