Reborn As The Vampire Noble Lady

Sunlight poured into my office, casting long golden rays across the floor. I sat behind my desk, fingers gently tapping on the wood as Kane stood dutifully at my side.

"Tell me the bad news," I said calmly.

"Very well, my Lady," Kane replied, his voice steady.

"There's a rumor circulating among the people… about you being a vampire daywalker," he began.

I narrowed my eyes.

"I believe it was the vampire nobles who spread this, my Lady," Kane continued. "They're trying to stir unrest."

"No doubt," I muttered. "They want the common people to turn on me—and at the same time, they'll file complaints to the King. A two-pronged strategy to shake me off my position."

Commoners feared vampires, and daywalkers were no exception. In fact, they were seen as even more dangerous—beings who could walk freely under the sun and still drink blood. To them, it didn't matter if we drank from animals. We were monsters.

I leaned back in my chair, thoughtful. My fingertips resumed their quiet tapping.

"There's more," Kane added, his expression darkening. "Our men found some of the missing villagers in the basement of the hidden manor."

I looked at him sharply. "Alive?"

He shook his head. "All dead. Their bodies were hung upside down, blood drained into containers below them."

My jaw clenched.

"Only some of the missing?" I asked.

Kane nodded. "Yes. It's likely that Eric has other locations. He wouldn't risk storing all his victims in one place. He's too cunning for that."

I leaned forward slightly.

"And what of Eric himself? Did the spies learn anything?"

"They did," Kane said. "His full name is Eric Vinehart. He was once a noble from the neighboring country of Yorlen."

"Yorlen…" I echoed. "That's across the border."

"Yes. But the Vinehart house no longer exists. It was wiped out decades ago."

I closed my eyes briefly, recalling the strange man with calm poise, dressed in fine noblewear and wielding psychological tricks like weapons.

"Kane, compile everything into a full report," I said. "Also, employ the spies to investigate the nobles here in Esklaira. I want a list of suspects—any vampire nobles hiding in plain sight."

"As you command, my Lady."

I drummed my fingers again… then smiled slyly.

"One more thing: start a rumor."

"A rumor, my Lady?"

"Yes. Tell the people I'm pregnant."

Kane looked visibly confused.

"Pregnant? But… my Lady, how—?"

"It doesn't matter," I interrupted. "Just spread the rumor. Everyone knows vampires and daywalkers can't bear children. If word spreads that I'm with child, it'll contradict the vampire rumor."

Understanding lit up in Kane's eyes.

"So you want to confuse the people?"

"Exactly. Let them question the stories. Eventually, they'll grow tired of rumors and ignore them altogether."

"As you wish, my Lady."

Before our conversation could continue, a servant rushed into the room.

"My Lady, a royal messenger has arrived. He is waiting in the main hall with a small escort."

I rose immediately, Kane following beside me. We made our way to the hall where the messenger and several royal guards stood at attention.

The messenger unrolled a royal scroll, then spoke in a loud, formal tone.

"By order of His Majesty, King Samuel Esklaira—Viscountess Ella Esklair is hereby summoned to the royal court for an audience. The King requests her immediate presence."

I bowed deeply, holding the hem of my gown, while Kane knelt beside me.

Once the message was delivered, the royal envoy departed without further word.

Kane stood. I straightened.

"I'll change into formal attire," I said. "Make sure the carriage is ready. We ride immediately."

"The royal capital is half a day's journey from Ptere," Kane noted. "We'll arrive by nightfall."

---

That Evening – The Royal Capital

We arrived at the grand castle just before sunset. The royal servant led me to a private receiving room. I recognized the signs instantly—this wasn't a public audience. The King wished to speak in private.

After a short wait, King Samuel entered.

I rose and gave a deep curtsy. He gestured for me to sit.

After tea and biscuits were served, the servants exited, leaving just the two of us.

"Your father and I were old friends," King Samuel began, sipping his tea. "I once offered him the rank of Duke, but he refused. Said Viscount was already more than enough."

I gave a soft smile. "That sounds like him. Humble and honest to the end."

The King nodded, eyes kind.

"I hope you carry that same virtue, Ella."

"I strive to, Your Majesty," I replied respectfully.

Then his gaze sharpened.

"Now, tell me the truth… are you a daywalker vampire?"

I met his eyes.

"Yes, Your Majesty. I am. But I swear to you—I only drink animal blood. I would never harm an innocent human being."

The room fell silent.

The King studied me for a long moment, then finally nodded.

"I believe you," he said. "You were raised by Flint. He wouldn't raise a monster."

He paused, sipping his tea again.

"But there are monsters out there. I want you to find them. Eliminate the vampire nobles who prey on our people. Crush the Red Moon criminals. Do whatever it takes."

I bowed my head. "Yes, Your Majesty. I will see it done."

"Good." He rose from his chair. "If you need assistance, tell Kane to liaise with me directly."

"I will, Your Majesty," I said, standing and curtsying once more.

Then the King left the room—and my mission became official.

The hunt had just begun.