Prodigy

Elle

Kate had been aware of Elle having doubled back from the beginning, but she didn't feel the need to rat her out. When she had spoken, she removed the ward of light from around herself. Kate studied her.

Elle was fifteen, and tall for a girl. She had light skin and was built like a goddess. Somehow, anyone born to be a vampire was always blessed with the best genetics.

Elle was older than Kate, but she was not a full vampire. This didn't surprise Kate. Kate had been born a vampire. This was very rare. Kate stood and approached the young woman. Elle took a step back. She innately understood that she was not Kate's equal.

"Stay," Kate commanded.

The command seemed to root Elle to the floor. Kate walked around her slowly. As she orbited the girl, she allowed her face to contort and her fangs grew.

"You are healthy." She glanced at the king and major. "Many would have killed her. May I ask why you keep a vampire?"

"The girl committed no crime. She has proven to be quite resourceful," the major replied.

"They don't let you have blood, but you haven't killed anyone." Kate said, as she did another orbit of the girl. Kate opened both hands, a bloodfruit formed in one and a goblet of blood in the other. "Sip the blood, don't gulp. Eat that when you are finished. It will help."

She turned to the king and major. "Thank you for taking care of this one. It lets me know that you have an open mind."

"As the major said, she has committed no crimes, beyond underage drinking, and contributing to the deliquesce of a princes." the king replied with a fatherly smile on his face.

"Hey, it was always her idea...I simply have the ability." Elle said.

The king nodded. "I know...truth be told, you are good for each other. I think this one may complete the trio."

Elle smiled. "If you think I'm hard to control..."

"I don't mean to control any of you...This one has a degree of wisdom. You will make mistakes, but Kate, will always take responsibility for her actions," the king said.

"I don't take responsibility?"

The major raised his hand. "His majesty is simply stating that he believes that Ms. Dawson won't even offer excuses."

"But excuses are fun to come up with." Elle said, as she took a sip of blood.

Her eyes widened and she lifted the glass towards her lips.

"No," Kate said and Elle froze.

"Please teach me that skill, I have to beg," the major said.

Elle glanced at him, then looked at Kate.

"Give it a few minutes. If you drink too fast...bloodlust will kick in." Kate explained.

Kate looked at the major. "I can't teach you this skill. I am the first vampire she has met, and until she matures, she will obey me without question. This is a biological imperative for our species."