At first Alyssa wanted to wait for Gabriel to wake up, but Cornelius said that he was unsure if he was going to awaken anytime soon, so it was better to go without him and just invite him the next time. Cornelius also said this was a good chance for Alyssa to spend time with her new master and get to know one another a bit more while buying new stuff for her to use in the city. Cornelius made it abundantly clear that while in New Lycan and in other cities, she would have to conduct herself and even dress appropriately since most of his business in these cities would be for diplomatic purposes. She needed to play dress right for the part and while Alyssa had no idea why she would be a part of that process moving forward, she chose not to question it for the time being and not to take a gift horse in the mouth. Her new master wanted to spend money on her at the shops, so Alyssa was going to go with the flow and allow the prince to spoil her rotten. Cornelius took her to a mall like structure which was similar to the one Gabriel took her to when the visited several months ago. They went to a few tailor shops, browsing through dresses and suits that might look great on her, and bought a few items here and there. What surprised Alyssa during the early part of their shopping is that the big vampire didn’t say anything about the stuff she was looking at. She could have sworn he was going to say something but ended up remaining silent as if he was waiting for the right time to speak up. After buying a few things and spending a bit of money, Cornelius guided her to a specific shop that looked rather expensive. Despite being spent on someone else’s dime, Alyssa always tried to be frugal when spending money which was a force of habit for her. This time the Dark Prince encouraged her to walk in and take a look about. The items in the store were far more expensive, and Alyssa for a moment considered showing herself out but she was unable to.

“Alyssa, please come here,” her master called out to her from the middle of the shop. He was standing there with two women who worked in the store. Unable to refuse her master’s request, Alyssa walked up to where he was standing.

“These ladies are aware of the décor and customs we must abide by,” Cornelius said, gesturing to the two ladies. “They will help you put together outfits that not only meet those requirements but also are acceptable to your personal tastes.”

“Oh, thank you.” Alyssa said, trying to be polite.

“It is us who should thank you,” one of the ladies said with a slight courtesy. “We are honored to be serving members of the royal family.”

“It is I who is thankful for your dedication to help us out,” Cornelius said, “And money is no object when seeking good fashion. I am going to step out and get a snack, and trust you will both be very helpful getting this lady settled in?”

“Of course, your highness.” The lady shop replied, eager to spend his money.

“I’ll leave you to it then,” Cornelius said giving a bow of his own. “Ladies.”

Alyssa watched him leave the shop but paid no attention after, as she was too distracted by all the things the women in the shop wanted to show her. This was exactly how Cornelius had planned it because he there was someone that he had to deal with, and he didn’t want Alyssa to get involved. This was the perfect distraction and the big vampire started to walk in a certain direction but did an about face at the last second and grabbed a man who was standing behind a pillar. Cornelius had noticed this man had been watching both him and Alyssa and waited for the right moment to seize him and find out what was going on. He dragged the man rather easily into an empty hallway that gave them both a little privacy. The man tried to resist but was not even close to being strong enough to break free from the vampire’s grip. Cornelius had a lot of questions for his follower but there was a surprise of his own when he ripped the man’s hat off from his head. He noticed who the man was and seeing his face for the first time since the attack made Cornelius a little less aggressive.

“I know you,” Cornelius said, easing his grip just a little bit. “You’re one of my brother’s friends, are you not?”

“I am,” The man said, “Where is Gabriel?”

“He’s asleep right now,” Cornelius answered, “He had a rough week, so it was decided not to disturb him. What are you doing here, Pablo?”

“This wasn’t my idea,” Pablo said, a little relieved that Cornelius remembered him, “I got a little sidetracked as we were trying to get away from the Californians.”

“I can see that,” Cornelius said, pausing for a moment. “I can also tell from your smell that you’ve changed. How did that happen?”

“It was an accident,” Pablo said, “But it’s a change I’ve had to get used to.”

“I see,” Cornelius replied, “But what about the others, where are they?”

“Sean and his people managed to make it to the human city we were supposed to rendezvous at.” Pablo answered, “Due to the circumstances of my accident, I told them to keep going without me.”

“A wise decision,” Cornelius concurred, as he let go of Pablo and straightened his jacket out for him, respectfully. “And that brings us to the present moment. Why are you following the young lady and I?”

“What is it with you two?” Pablo countered, “Why are you so chummy and dress shopping all of a sudden?”

“I can’t say much,” Cornelius started, “But you’re not the only one who has gone through some changes since we last met.”

“Are you serious?” Pablo said, as he couldn’t believe it. “Gabriel turned her!”

“No, it was I who did the turning.” Cornelius admitted, “I had no choice. Our options were to make her one of us or watch her die. She’s alright with that decision, so you should be as well.”

“Damn,” Pablo said, looking back at him, “This has gotten messed up on so many levels.”

“Indeed,” Cornelius agreed, “But you haven’t answered my question.”

“Sorry,” Pablo said, taking a deep breath. “I was hoping to speak with Gabriel and Alyssa about what happened and maybe get some help.”

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

“To be fair, I wouldn’t recommend that.” Cornelius said, “Gabriel already feels guilty enough over what happened to Alyssa, so if he finds out about your plight it could only make things worse. However, that doesn’t mean that I cannot help you.”

“Oh, thank you.” Pablo said, rather surprised.

“I’m far richer than my brother,” Cornelius added, “And it doesn’t hurt to have people I can trust in different parts of the world, keeping an ear to the ground if you know what I mean.”

“I do,” Pablo said, “That’s actually a pretty good policy to have.”

“I also know people,” Cornelius added, “Some of the pack chiefs around here that owe me a few favors. I can make sure they look out for you to make sure you’re taken care of in this city.”

“And what do you want in return?” Pablo asked.

“Keep away from Alyssa and Gabriel for the time being,” Cornelius asked, “Give them time to adjust to their changes before laying yours on top. We’ll bring you back into the circle when the time is right, and I’ll make sure you’re well taken care of until that day comes.”

“That seems fair,” Pablo conceded, “I appreciate the offer, Cornelius. Things have been a bit of a struggle since I got here.”

“I’m basically hiring you, Pablo.” Cornelius reminded him, “You’ll be my eyes and ears here in the city, especially on the nights we’re not allowed to be here. That kind of Intel is quite valuable, and I shall pay top dollar for it.”

“Alright,” Pablo said, holding out his hand, “I’ll take it. I’m more than willing to earn my keep rather than take a handout, so you’ve got a deal.”

“I like your attitude,” Cornelius said, shaking his hand. “Deliver all the information I would need to the front desk of the vampire tower every week. I will then start making deposits to your account and get you in touch with people I trust in this city. In the meantime, this should hold you over.”

Cornelius dug into one of his pockets and he pulled out a rather large wad of paper money. He didn’t even bother to open it and handed it to Pablo, whose face was one of utter shock. The big vampire patted Pablo on the back to ease his tension.

“Spend it wisely,” Cornelius advised, “Don’t flash it around either, or people in this city might get suspicious. You’re a smart man, so be discrete.”

“I understand,” Pablo said, as he pocketed the cash. “Thank you.”

“It is I who should be thanking you,” Cornelius confessed, “You were very helpful to my brother and it’s only fair that your loyalty be rewarded. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to get back to the shop. I have a feeling my opinion on a few dresses might be urgently needed.”

“Alright,” Pablo said, “I’ll drop off my information in exactly a week.”

“Good man,” Cornelius said, slapping him on the shoulder, “Get something to eat, head home, and take care of yourself.”

Cornelius watched as Pablo did as he was instructed and walked away from him and the shop so he wouldn’t be noticed by Alyssa. After watching him walk out of sight, Cornelius then strolled back into the shop to see that Alyssa was trying on a rather nice outfit that was very appropriate for her new position in his family. It was a nice suit, all black, and it looked similar to the official outfit that his father made him wear to official events, so it was just right in his books.

“What do you think?” Alyssa asked, as she noticed that he was back.

“I like this one,” Cornelius said, “We’re definitely taking it.”

“It’s nice that you agree,” The shopkeeper said, “But we decided that already.”

“I’m sure you have,” Cornelius said, as he didn’t care. “Show me what else we’re buying today.”

Thanks to the ladies in the shop, who were already aware of what Cornelius was looking for, they directed Alyssa to pick things that he wanted and still make her feel it was her idea to buy them. They had done their jobs well, as the big vampire was very pleased with her selections.

“Very nice,” Cornelius said, nodding in approval.

“I saw you talking to someone,” Alyssa said, “Who was that?”

“An old friend,” Cornelius said, “He was in need of help, and I was more than willing to provide it.”

“Oh, alright,” Alyssa said, as she didn’t want to push things. “I think I’m finished here, and we’ve spent enough of your money.”

“If you say so,” Cornelius said, looking at one of the ladies of the shop. “Have these delivered to her room at the tower, and don’t forget to tip yourselves very generously for your assistance.”

“Thank you, your grace.” The shopkeeper said, giving a slight bow.

Cornelius and Alyssa left the shop and still managed to do some browsing through other shops as they had plenty of darkness to work with. The wolves of New Lycan were also very nocturnal so malls and shops were opened all night because it was better business for all monsters, rather than just vampires and wolves. After buying a few more items here and there, Cornelius took Alyssa out to a familiar place that caught her attention. It was the same pub that Gabriel had brought her to the first time she ever met Cornelius when he joined them for supper. Like the last time they visited, all the patrons in the room stopped what they were doing, shocked to see the both of them in their establishment once again. One of the pub’s waitresses came walking up to both vampires and tried to be friendly.

“Can I help you?” the young lady started, it was clear she didn’t know who she was addressed, and Cornelius honestly didn’t care and was amused by her treatment of them both.

“I’d like a table for two,” Cornelius softly replied, “If one is available.”

“There’s one right over there,” The young lady answered as she led both Alyssa and Cornelius to the small but surprisingly stable table in the middle of the pub. She handed them a menu and was about to take their drink orders when the owner of the pub came running over to the table.

“Your highness,” she said, with bated breath.

“Your highness?” the waitress repeated.

“Forgive her,” the pub owner gasped, his voice quite raspy. “I can find you a much better table if you give me the chance.”

“That is not necessary,” Cornelius informed the owner, “I am very pleased with this one right here. A substitution is not required.”

“Oh, yes, your grace,” The owner said, who then turned to face the young waitress. “This is The Dark Prince of Transylvania. Currently the head of the royal family and heir to the throne. Please try to be a little more courteous, my dear.”

“She’s been quite polite,” Cornelius corrected him, not wanting to cause issues. “We have no problem with her thus far.”

“No, we don’t.” Alyssa agreed. “I’m even ready to make my order.”

“Very good,” the waitress said, smiling at her. “What would you like?”

After placing their order and watching the waitress high tail off to make sure it was given priority, Alyssa looked back at Cornelius with a smile.

“Did you pick this place just for me?” She asked him.

“Not just for you,” Cornelius started, “I remember this place rather fondly and enjoyed the food greatly the last time we dined here. I also thought you might find it more comforting than going back to the hall again.”

“You assumed correctly,” Alyssa said, as she was enjoying being back in the pub again after some time had passed. “Thank you.”

“It will give us time to talk,” Cornelius added, “Especially if you have any questions that you might still have.”

“Fair enough,” Alyssa said, sitting up in her seat. “Are you going to let me visit my sister anytime soon?”

“I’m unsure how soon we can do that,” Cornelius honestly answered, “But I will send word to New Salem to start negotiations.”

“We have to negotiate just to visit?” Alyssa asked, somewhat shocked.

“At least we have to the power to do that much,” Cornelius added, “Most people would just be denied access. It’s my political clout that makes the difference.”

“Fair enough,” Alyssa said, sighing. “So, I will eventually get to see Diane, but it’s going to take a bit of time to things sorted?”

“I’m afraid so,” Cornelius confirmed, “But we can use that time for your training so that nothing will go wrong when we do visit.”

“What could go wrong?” She asked him.

“You have no idea,” Cornelius said, just as their drinks arrived first. He grabbed his glass and raised it before his new subordinate. “I’ll make sure we’re ready, but in the meantime, let’s eat and enjoy ourselves!”