The First Vampire

“Do you think any giant dragons still exist in the world?”

Colin asked with a smile as he gazed up at the towering, majestic walls of Dragon City.

Vera, riding with him on the same horse, leaned back against her husband’s warm body and answered lazily, “Giant dragons are extinct; of course, there won’t be any.”

Colin appeared not to be ready to give up, saying stubbornly, “There could still be the odd surviving giant dragon hiding in some dark corner, couldn’t there?”

Vera chuckled, explaining, “That’s possible, though unlikely. According to records, the High Elves created a marvelous spell called ‘Dragon Search’ which can roughly locate any giant dragons in the world.

So, if any giant dragons still existed, the High Elves would surely know about them.

However, it was the High Elves who declared that the giant dragons are extinct.

I believe they must be sure to make such a claim.”

Colin nodded, understanding at last, but then he exclaimed with some regret, “That’s a real shame! I was hoping to witness the grandeur of a giant dragon for myself.”

Scholar Doan, who was nearby, chimed in, “The giant dragons are probably extinct, but there is still a dragon egg kept in the Phoenix Palace. If you’re interested, Viscount, you could visit sometime.”

“Oh? A dragon egg? Has it not hatched?” Colin asked, his interest immediately piqued.

“Of course not.” Scholar Doan shook his head, “The St. Lorenzo family tried various methods, but there’s no sign of life in that egg.”

Seeing Colin’s hopeful face, Vera laughed and said, “Colin, if you’re interested in giant dragons, you could visit Yevir. The Mage Council still has a few remains of dragons.

Most of the dragon relics, however, are with the Elves. You would have a feast for your eyes if Bright Moon Forest hadn’t become forbidden territory.”

“It may be forbidden territory now, but it might not always be!” exclaimed Colin excitedly.

“Yes, in fact, the mages have been trying all along to find a way into Bright Moon Forest…”

As the three were engaged in passionate discussion, Dragon City was already within sight.

A greeting party had lined up outside the city gates, led by none other than Queen Midela.

“Auntie!”

Vera hurriedly dismounted and rushed into Queen Midela’s arms for a warm hug.

Comforting, Midela gently stroked Vera’s back, “I have heard about your father, I’m so sorry.”

Vera just nodded softly without saying much.

Her feelings toward Duke St. Hilde were rather complicated, making her unsure of how to react.

“Your Majesty the Queen!” Colin hurriedly stepped forward to pay his respects.

Queen Midela responded with a graceful smile, “Colin, I’m sorry I couldn’t attend your wedding, but I’m relieved. Vera is lucky to have a splendid Knight like you to protect her.”

“Your recognition is an honor for me. From now on, I will redouble my efforts and never let you down!” Colin maintained his outward courtesy, though inwardly he kept his distance from the captivating queen.

Her actions at Silver Moon City made Colin know that this woman was not as simple as she seemed.

His plan for coming to Dragon City this time was to quickly have Vera accept her title, then immediately return to take formal control of North Territory.

Only by revitalizing North Territory could Colin truly make his place in this world.

Under the guidance of Queen Midela, Colin and his party entered Dragon City.

As the largest city in the Glorious Empire, even in the whole world, Dragon City was far more prosperous than Winterfell City.

The spacious streets were filled with passersby who scattered to the sides, curiously watching the visitors once they caught sight of the royal banner.

To avoid causing any unnecessary disturbance, Colin and Vera took shelter in Queen Midela’s horse-drawn carriage, keeping themselves out of sight.

Still, some shrewd observers identified the emblem of the St. Hilde family from the Golden Lion Badge, and knew that it must be the successor of the Northern Duke coming to receive the title from the Emperor.

When they finally arrived at the Phoenix Palace, Colin hopped out of the carriage first then courteously helped Vera and Queen Midela out.

The court maids waiting, took out colorful flower petals from the baskets and scattered them into the air, soon filling the path leading to the Phoenix Palace.

Vera, arm in arm with Colin, walked up the steps covered with fresh flowers towards the splendid Phoenix Palace.

Colin originally thought that Emperor Reinhardt would greet them in the palace, but surprisingly, they did not see the emperor of the empire.

This made him wonder, was the emperor really too busy or did he have any reservations about Vera?

According to Scholar Doan’s judgment, Emperor Reinhardt should have wished to see Vera inheriting the position of Northern Duke, but now it seemed that something was amiss.

A shadow of doubt clouded his mind, and Colin hardly paid any attention to appreciate the grandeur of Phoenix Palace.

Queen Midela led Colin and Vera into a side hall of the grand reception room.

The decoration style of the hall was not overly luxurious, but a closer look revealed understated elegance hidden in minute details.

The exquisite murals, sculptures adorned the corners of the hall, the ground covered with a hundred-year-old shiny paulownia wood floor, and seven crystal magic lamps hung on the ceiling, casting a soft glow even during the day.

The three of them took their respective places, and several beautiful court maids walked in with silver trays, offering beverages and desserts.

Out of politeness, Vera inspected the murals on the wall.

At this time, Colin wisely kept his mouth shut. The country baron’s son didn’t have the best art education; it was best not to make a fool of himself.

Fortunately, Queen Midela is from the St. Hilde family, the atmosphere quickly became casual and friendly.

However, Colin seemed somewhat distracted.

He was wondering, when exactly would Emperor Reinhardt appear?

But, they didn’t get to see the ruler of the empire throughout their meeting, instead, they were introduced to the queen’s daughter and son.

Prince Harrison, Colin had already met in Silver Moon City. Perhaps because Colin previously left a deep impression on him, seeing Colin again made him somewhat fearful, as he diverted his gaze while greeting him.

As for Princess Judy, this was the first time Colin had met her.

She was slightly younger than Prince Harrison, wearing a lovely floral pleated dress, with pigtails, and silver crystal shoes on her feet. She bore a striking resemblance to Queen Midela and was quite a beauty in the making. All the baby fat on her face only made her more adorable.

Moreover, she seemed to know how to utilize her charm well, calling out sweetly “Sister Vera” and “Brother Colin” as soon as she met them.

Vera’s heart was captured quickly, as she held Judy in her arms, unwilling to let go.

The atmosphere in the hall suddenly became even warmer, as the conversation shifted to the young children’s mischief and fun. Vera and Colin’s trip to the Imperial Capital seemed more like a family visit.

However, until the end of the reception, Queen Midela did not bring up the matter of the conferment of Vera as a Duchess, nor did she mention when Emperor Reinhardt would meet Vera.

Since the queen did not mention it, it was not appropriate for Colin to ask.

When Queen Midela stood up to escort Vera and Colin to rest, only Prince Harrison and Princess Judy were left in the reception room.

Judy was still eating the leftover dessert with relish, while Harrison was staring blankly at the ground, deep in thought.

“Brother, aren’t you eating?” Judy asked kindly.

Harrison shook his head, somewhat absent-minded.

“That Viscount Angler isn’t that scary.”

“When did I ever say I was afraid of him!” Harrison, like a cat whose tail had been stepped on, was instantly on alert.

Judy immediately dropped her innocent facade, revealing her mischievous spirit and said with a giggle, “Do you want me to help you take revenge?”

Harrison seemed somewhat tempted, but stubbornly said, “I… I have no grudge against him.”

“Really? Then who was it that had nightmares screaming his name and even wet the bed! Hee hee hee…”

Seeing his sister mock him, Harrison turned red with anger, jumped up from his chair and walked out without looking back.

“Ah, Brother Harrison, wait for me!”