EPOV

I hoped Bruce wouldn't overplay his hand, pretending to be ill, when he called to give Sookie the night off work. (He would never willingly deceive her. How did she charm everyone? I had to use a little glamour.) I could have gotten her to go with me to the benefit using a more direct approach, but I was trying to "be less bossy" as Pam had phrased it. I had several reasons for inviting her along. Obviously, Sookie might hear something from a were or shifter that I would find useful. Also, taking her would mark her as a trusted member of my retinue, not just some woman I was sleeping with. Lastly, she could see the power that I held and the respect given to me in the supe community. I wanted to impress her. I was giving a speech tonight and receiving an award. Sookie had been a little cool to me recently. After tonight, she would be eager to invite me to her bed.

When I arrived at her house I smelled shifter – more specifically Sam Merlotte. I almost accused her of sleeping with him, but I refrained. I didn't want to come off as jealous and overbearing. Besides, when she saw me I felt lust from her. I knew she wasn't the kind of girl to take numerous men to her bed – she had been a virgin the first night I laid with her. A virgin! She was mine first, last, and always. I had started a list of positions I wanted to try with her. I sighed. This line of thought would never get us to the hospital benefit.

I used my Northman charm and soon we were on our way to spend the evening rubbing elbows with Shreveport's finest . Sookie was affected by the wards outside of the banquet hall and she was a little afraid the supes would not welcome her. Of course, although she is not aware of it, Sookie is not completely human anyway. Most of the humans in attendance would be second, third… children of weres or shifters (only the first born could shift). I would probably be the only vampire bringing a human – only a bonded human or a long time companion would normally be invited. Very few vampires in Area 5 had that sort of relationship with a breather. Most of us fed, sexed, and glamoured.

SPOV

When we stepped inside, Eric whispered in my ear, "People will notice when I walk in. Just hold your head high and try not to let the attention bother you." Great. Eric took my hand and led me into the dining area. Chandeliers hung overhead and the tables were set with fine china and crystal goblets. No Chinte or Solo cups for this crowd. The vampires that I spotted seemed to be drinking from glasses and the human/two natured had plates full of food in front of them. A waiter greeted Eric by name and led us to the head table. I so did not want to be the center of attention. As we walked towards the front of the room, those in attendance sure did notice. I saw forks stop in mid air and heads turn toward us. Many fell silent and stared. What had I gotten myself into? What did my appearance with Eric mean? He was so going to get an earful when we were alone!

She must be something really special – the Sherriff never attaches himself to humans. She smells of Northman and something else – perhaps she is more than she appears. She must be incredible in the sack for Eric to bring her here. Is he arrogant enough to risk all of us by bringing his lovely pet? She has a great rack. Normally, I don't like vampires leavings, but for her I would make an exception. Has the Sherriff brought a snack along? The voices went on and on. Eric squeezed my hand gently and I was able to block out the thoughts by concentrating on his silence. Eventually we made it to the front of the room. We sat and Eric introduced me to the others at the table – a Colonel and Mrs. Flood and a Mrs. and Ms. Yancy (mother and daughter). Two chairs were vacant. Eric explained that most vampires did not come until after the meal. Eric ordered Royalty Blend (bottled blood from minor royalty, apparently). I almost expected it to be blue.

"Would you like steak or chicken, Miss Stackhouse," our waiter asked. He was wearing a uniform with E(E)E embroidered on the front.

"Steak, please," I answered.

"Would you like it cooked?" Would I like it cooked, not how?

"Medium well, please." He looked at me like I had asked him to pour ketchup on it.

"How is transition consulting going?" Colonel flood asked. "I've never know Eric to be keen to follow the advice of others."

I smiled. How best to answer that? "I have found Mr. Northman to be practical most of the time. He does need to work on how he communicates with humans. Most of us do not enjoy being ordered around." I couldn't help but smirk in Eric's direction. He smiled to be polite, but it didn't reach his eyes. The others at the table chuckled. The Yancys began entertaining us with the story of a bridezilla from hell. Eric's eyes had a warm glow as he watched me laugh. My meal was delicious .

"Not nearly as good as yours," he whispered in my ear after taking his final drink of Royalty. I shivered, and not because I felt a cool draft. I was just finishing up my chocolate cheesecake when Gerald and Clancy, two or Eric's most trusted vamps, arrived at the table. Both looked at me a little warily. I guessed I wouldn't be putting their numbers on my speed dial.

Our attention was called and a small, hobbit like woman took the microphone.

"As I am sure you are aware, I am Dr. Ludwig. I am glad to see all of you here tonight without silver poisoning, broken limbs, or massive burns. Of course, the night is still young. Thank you for supporting our hospital and my lively hood. Have a good evening." With that she sat down.

Brief speeches were alright with me. A very large bald man took the stage. He welcomed everyone again and gave a lengthier greeting. He called Colonel Flood to the stage. The Colonel (now retired) was the Packmaster of Shreveport, which is apparently the head honcho. He gave a rousing speech about the strength of the pack, the commitment of its members, and their ability to work together for the common good. At the end of his speech, he called Sherriff Northman to the stage. He presented Eric with something encased in glass. Eric held it up and the entire room broke out in cheers and howls. Howls? I contemplated hiding under the table.

"What is in the case?" I asked Mrs. Flood.

"Silver tipped teeth taken from a very evil fairy that Eric tracked down and killed," she responded proudly.

"Oh." I was real sorry I asked.

As the room settled down, Eric took the microphone.