Emerald's day remained hazy after the unsettling events. The idea of being forced from his familiar surroundings lingered in his mind. He gathered his homework and assignments, spreading them across the table before retreating to the bed for a fresh bath.
Some time later, Genna materialized from the mirror, her attention immediately drawn to the cluttered table. Emerald watched, fascinated by this unfolding reality. He approached the mirror, reaching out to touch it, but the surface remained still and unresponsive.
"It's magic, Emy boy," Genna's voice was a low rasp as she continued to examine the work.
"Aren't vampires supposed to be incapable of magic?" Emerald inquired.
She glanced at him sideways. "You're more than what you appear, you know."
"Well, it doesn't take much effort to read some fiction if it interests you," Emerald retorted.
"Tell me your understanding, and I'll correct you if you're mistaken," Genna stated.
"You need to die to become a vampire," Emerald began.
"You're half right and half wrong," Genna corrected. "Nobles like me are naturally born vampires. The rest, as you see in fiction, are created by ending a life."
"That's new to me. So, there's discrimination within your kind too?"
"We are not humans. We are a superior species capable of acknowledging our own mistakes and keeping our word."
"This vampire transformation, how does it work? Do you need to drain someone's blood or perform a ritual?" Emerald found himself deeply engaged in their conversation.
"No, have you ever heard of getting blood into your system?"
Emerald nodded. "I understand. That explains the killing part indeed." Hesitantly, he continued, "What about your survival, madam?"
Genna displayed the ring on her hand. "Of course. The sun is a curse. We need blood to survive; a few drops can last for weeks."
"Regarding the sun, do you sparkle if you don't wear the ring?"
Genna's expression turned grim. "Nah, we burn."
"What about fire?"
"A little wouldn't do much, but it's lethal nonetheless."
Emerald's thirst for knowledge remained unquenched. He mused over Genna's seemingly endless patience. After a moment, his final question surfaced.
"If you don't mind, I have one last question for you."
She offered no verbal response, simply maintaining her composed stance.
"The concept of vengeance, does that resonate with you? To elaborate a little, we humans kill over property, power, and even emotions, and vengeance plays a crucial role in it. If I'm not mistaken, we humans have committed unspeakable acts against your kind. Do your people share that inclination?" Emerald's question was lengthy and thoughtful.
Genna regarded his earnest expression. With a gentle smile, she began, "Let me tell you a story. In the early days of human civilization, there thrived a powerful empire. This empire had enemies who coveted its strength. They assassinated the emperor and installed his son as a puppet ruler. The young king eventually grew weary of their manipulations. He fled the kingdom, a decision that cost him dearly; he witnessed his loved ones being hanged on the outskirts of the capital."
"So, did he seek revenge alone?" Emerald interjected.
"No, he didn't. He ran further and further until his legs could carry him no more. He stopped at countless settlements during his flight, and everywhere he went, he was struck by how these people lived for vengeance. His running ceased when he encountered a woman living in solitude in a large settlement." Genna looked at him and continued, "You enjoy stories, don't you?"
"Yes, I do," Emerald replied, intrigued by her tale.
"What if I brought you a book worth reading?"
"I would truly love that, but it has to be interesting."
"It is, boy." Genna stood up after speaking. She began to walk towards the mirror.
"Wait, what about my question?" Emerald asked.
"I'll be right back. Don't be a crybaby now." Genna, with a pleasant smile, stepped through the mirror.
After a short while, she returned, carrying a rather large, rusty brick. She placed it on the bed. To Emerald, it resembled a grimoire from ancient times. He stared at her, puzzled.
"You asked me a question, didn't you?"
"Yes, I did."
"And I gave you half the answer."
"I suppose so."
"Here's the rest of the story." Genna had a hint of excitement in her eyes as she saw Emerald's anticipation.
(To be continued)