❅──────✧❅Small Kingdom❅✧──────❅

Artemis trotted down the cobblestone streets of the vampire city with the regal air of one who knew she belonged. The morning light was dim, veiled by the perpetual mist that clung to the city's ancient stone walls. Her golden fur shimmered faintly, a striking contrast against the gloom. This was her kingdom—or so she acted—and the city's inhabitants, human and vampire alike, seemed to recognize her silent claim.

Her first stop was the morning food distribution for the humans. Though she always had her breakfast first thing in the morning, the ritual intrigued her. She liked watching the humans shuffle in lines, some wary and others grateful. A vampire stood behind the makeshift counter, his crimson eyes scanning the crowd with cold indifference. But when Artemis appeared, his expression softened.

"Ah, there you are, little queen," he murmured as she approached. His name was Lucien, a lower-ranked vampire who stood out among his kind for one peculiar trait: he genuinely liked cats. Perhaps it was his last thread of humanity clinging to life, or perhaps it was something else, but Artemis always received a warm welcome from him.

She meowed softly, rubbing against his leg as he knelt to scratch behind her ears. His touch was gentle, almost reverent, as if she were a relic from a world long gone. "You've already eaten, haven't you?" he asked, producing a small piece of dried fish from his pocket. "Well, you deserve a snack for gracing me with your presence."

Artemis purred as she devoured the treat, her tail flicking in satisfaction. Lucien chuckled softly, the sound almost human. "Be careful out there," he whispered, watching as she padded off toward the human district.

The human district was a world of contrasts. Children played in the dirt with handmade toys while the older children toiled away in silence, their faces etched with weariness. Artemis navigated the streets like a seasoned traveler, her small frame weaving through the bustling crowds. The humans knew her well enough not to bother her, though a few offered tentative smiles or whispered greetings as she passed.

From time to time, she paused to observe the interactions between humans and vampires. Some vampires treated the humans with contempt, barely disguising their disdain, while others maintained an air of cold indifference. A rare few, like Lucien, seemed to carry traces of the humanity they had lost, but those were dwindling. Artemis, unbothered by these dynamics, moved on.

Her next destination was one of her favorites: Ky Luc's lounging area. A secluded courtyard nestled behind one of the city's grander buildings, it was a place where the enigmatic fifth progenitor often retreated to escape the chaos of politics. Sometimes he was there; sometimes he wasn't. Either way, Artemis made it a point to check.

Today, as she approached, her keen eyes caught the familiar shape of Ky reclining on a stone bench. He was alone, his expression one of rare tranquility as he gazed at the pale sky. Artemis crouched low, her tail swishing with anticipation. She crept closer, her small body a study in feline precision.

Then she pounced.

Ky caught her effortlessly, his reflexes sharper than her playful ambush. "You never learn, do you?" he said, holding her up by her scruff. Artemis dangled in his grasp, her golden eyes narrowing in what could only be described as feline indignation.

"You're lucky I have quick hands," Ky continued, his tone mocking. "If you'd fallen, I'd be in serious trouble. Dead meat, as they say. Although..." He smirked, his fangs glinting. "Technically speaking, I already am."

Artemis growled—a low, rumbling sound that made Ky laugh. "Oh, come now, don't be so dramatic, little huntress," he teased, pulling her close so he could inspect her. "Failed huntress, I should say. You've got all the grace but none of the bite."

She swiped at his face with her tiny claws, but he tilted his head back, dodging her strike with ease. "That's the spirit," he said, chuckling. "But if you're going to try and maul me, at least commit to it."

As he set her down, Artemis immediately puffed up her fur, glaring at him with an expression that seemed to say, You'll regret this. Ky crouched to meet her gaze, his grin widening. "Oh, are you plotting your revenge already? Go ahead, little queen. Give me your worst."

Before Artemis could launch another attack, a ripple of movement caught her attention. Vampires were filing out of the grand building nearby, their pale faces unfamiliar. Artemis darted to a tree at a safe distance, her claws digging into the bark as she climbed to a vantage point.

Ky followed her gaze, his smirk fading as he watched the procession. "New faces," he muttered. "Must be here for the council meeting."

From her perch, Artemis surveyed the scene, her tail twitching with curiosity. But her attention snapped back to the ground when Ky's voice called out, mockery laced in every word.

"Failed huntress, what are you doing up there? Planning your next clumsy attack?"

Artemis growled and leaped down, aiming for him once more. She nearly missed, her balance faltering mid-jump, but Ky caught her before she could tumble.

"See?" he said, holding her securely. "If you end up splattered in front of me, I'm the one who gets blamed. And I quite like my head where it is, thank you very much."

As if sensing his jest, Artemis growled again, though softer this time, and swatted at his hand. Ky laughed, the sound echoing through the courtyard. "You're relentless, I'll give you that," he said. "But don't forget, I've got the upper hand here. Literally."

He gently placed her down, watching as she shook herself off with exaggerated dignity. "Go on, then," he said, motioning toward the city. "Continue your royal rounds, your highness. But try not to cause too much trouble—or get yourself killed."

Artemis gave him a withering glare before strutting off, her tail held high. Ky watched her go, a rare softness flickering across his features before his usual smirk returned.

"Failed huntress," he murmured, shaking his head. "What would this city be without you?"

❅──────✧❅New Friends❅✧──────❅

The cobblestones were damp from the morning mist as Lucien sat cross-legged in the shadow of a crumbling archway. His pale fingers gently teased a feathered toy, enticing the golden-furred cat before him. Artemis, her regal form stretched lazily on the ground, batted at the feather with half-hearted amusement.

Lucien chuckled softly. "Who made it possible to call you queen, huh?" he asked, his voice carrying an almost human warmth. "Who's your owner, little Majesty? Some human sneaking around the city? Or maybe it's one of the nobles trying to keep a little piece of their humanity?"

Artemis purred, brushing against his leg before attempting to snatch the feather again. Lucien tilted his head, smiling. "You don't seem afraid of me, though. Most creatures run at the sight of us. But you? You stroll around like you own the place."

He sighed and leaned back, watching as Artemis settled herself on her haunches, her piercing eyes scanning the surroundings with an almost predatory calm. "Your Majesty can't just be your name, though. That'd be strange. What's your real—?"

The words died in his throat as a cold, dark voice cut through the air like a blade.

"Artemis."

Lucien froze. The sound carried an undeniable weight, a presence that sank into his chest and gripped his spine. He turned his head slowly, his eyes meeting the figure of a tall, imposing vampire with a regal demeanor.

"She is called Artemis," the figure continued, stepping closer with measured precision. The mist seemed to part for him, shying away from his cold aura. "And Artemis is my cat."

The realization hit Lucien like a punch to the gut. He had heard the stories, the whispers that traveled like wildfire through the city's underbelly. Lord Urd Geales, the progenitor of Russia, a name synonymous with power and absolute control. And this cat—this seemingly ordinary creature—was his.

Artemis, unfazed by the tension, trotted toward Urd with a casual grace. She leaped effortlessly into his arms, purring as he cradled her like she was the most precious thing in the world.

Urd's cold gaze fixed on Lucien, who had risen to his feet instinctively. "Your name," Urd demanded, his voice as sharp as the edge of a sword.

"L-Lucien, my lord," he stammered, his usual composure crumbling under the weight of Urd's presence. "I—uh—I didn't know she was—"

Urd raised a gloved hand, silencing him. "And what were you doing with her?"

Lucien swallowed hard, his throat dry. "I—was feeding her, my lord. Playing with her. I meant no disrespect."

Urd's eyes narrowed slightly, but his tone remained eerily calm. "Did she cause you any trouble?"

"No, my lord," Lucien replied quickly. "Not at all. She's... she's lovely."

Urd's expression remained unreadable as he looked down at Artemis, who was now curling into his chest, utterly content. "Good," he said softly, almost to himself. Then his gaze snapped back to Lucien. "You fed her?"

"I did, my lord," Lucien admitted, trying not to tremble under the weight of that piercing stare. "If it displeases you, I'll—I'll stop. Of course."

Urd tilted his head slightly, his eyes assessing Lucien with an inscrutable intensity. "No," he said after a long pause. "It is fine."

Lucien blinked, his surprise momentarily overriding his fear. "Thank you, my lord."

Urd said nothing more. With Artemis in his arms, he turned and walked away, his cloak billowing softly behind him. The sound of his boots against the cobblestones echoed until it faded into the mist.

❅──────✧❅✧──────❅

The next morning, Lucien awoke to find an unexpected package in his chamber. It sat neatly on the small table by his bed—a finely crafted bag of premium cat food, the type rarely seen in the city.

He stared at it for a long moment, unsure whether to feel relieved or more unnerved. But as he opened the bag and inhaled its scent, a faint smile tugged at his lips.

It seemed the queen had friends in high places.

❅──────✧❅Protect❅✧──────❅

The city was quiet as dusk descended, its shadows stretching long and ominous across the cobblestone streets. Artemis had spent her entire day in hunt mode, darting through alleys, stalking the occasional bird or mouse, and taking bold leaps onto ledges with the silent precision of a true predator. Her golden fur, sleek and immaculate, now bore the faint traces of her day's work—dust, the occasional leaf, and the proud satisfaction of her feline spirit.

But the day had been long, and as her energy waned, she made one last leap—only to land directly onto the back of an unfamiliar vampire.

The vampire turned sharply, his red eyes flaring with instinctual rage as he snarled. Artemis, equally startled, puffed up into a ball of fur, her back arching and tail flicking with warning. The vampire's clawed hand twitched as if ready to lash out, but then he froze, his expression shifting from anger to sheer panic. Recognition dawned upon him. This was not just any cat—this was her.

The vampire straightened immediately, his posture rigid with fear and respect, though his expression betrayed his regret. Artemis hissed low, her blue eyes locked on him, a predatory glint in her gaze. She knew he had almost lashed out, and she wasn't about to let it go unnoticed.

Another vampire approached, the smirk on his lips betraying his amusement at the situation. "It seems," the newcomer drawled, "that you've upset her majesty."

The first vampire didn't respond, his focus entirely on Artemis as he dared not make a move to defend himself. Artemis, still puffed up, began to calm as a familiar presence drew near. Lucien, the quiet and unassuming vampire who often tended to her whims, stepped into view. His soft voice called out, "Artemis," and her ears flicked toward him, her tension easing slightly.

But then, from the opposite direction, a far more commanding presence approached. Ky Luc, the Fifth Progenitor, strolled casually onto the scene. His amused red eyes took in the sight of the two vampires, one trembling and the other barely containing his laughter, and the small, irate ball of fluff at the center of it all.

"What do we have here?" Ky's voice was velvet-laced with mockery. "A crime against her majesty? Or perhaps she's merely displeased with your existence?"

The surrounding vampires froze, their bodies stiffening as they bowed deeply to Ky in acknowledgment of his rank. Ky's gaze swept over them, his sharp smile promising trouble. Artemis, her fur still bristling slightly, leaped onto Lucien's shoulder, balancing herself gracefully. She stared Ky down, her blue eyes intense, as if to say, *This one is fine. Don't fight me on it.*

Ky raised an eyebrow, his amusement deepening. "Oh? Protecting him, are we?" He crossed his arms, his smirk growing. "I was about to have a little fun, but if you insist..."

With a lazy wave of his hand, he dismissed the others. "Go. All of you. You've lingered long enough."

The first vampire practically stumbled in his haste to retreat, his relief palpable. Lucien made to bow as well, but Artemis's weight on his shoulder disrupted his attempt, and he wavered awkwardly. Ky chuckled. "Raise your head. You'll only end up knocking her off."

Lucien straightened, his pale face tinged with embarrassment as Artemis perched regally on his shoulder, her tail flicking in irritation. Ky's sharp eyes didn't miss the way she continued to stare him down, as if still wary of his intentions. Her tail's rhythm was steady, a warning.

Ky held up his hands in mock surrender, his tone light but teasing. "Fine, fine. You've won, little lioness. I'll behave." He extended his arms, and Artemis leaped into them with the grace of a queen taking her throne.

Settling comfortably in his hold, she rubbed her head against his chest, a gesture of triumph. Ky sighed dramatically, his red eyes narrowing in mock defeat. "I don't know why I even try. You're impossible."

He glanced back at Lucien, who stood quietly, his demeanor humble but respectful. "Tell me. Who are you, that she'd bother to protect you?"

"No one of importance, my lord," he replied, his voice steady. "I'm Lucien, a lesser vampire, merely assigned to this city. Perhaps she favors me because I attend to her when she wanders... or perhaps because Lord Urd Geales has allowed it. I couldn't say for sure."

Ky tilted his head, scrutinizing the unassuming vampire. His smirk returned. "So she likes you too, hm? Enough to wage a silent war against me, it seems."

Artemis stretched languidly in his arms, her eyes half-lidded with satisfaction as if to confirm the statement. Ky chuckled darkly, shaking his head. "Well, I suppose even queens have their favorites. Consider yourself lucky, Lucien. It's not every day someone earns her majesty's favor."

Lucien inclined his head in silent gratitude, though his shoulders remained tense under Ky's sharp gaze. Artemis, content now, let out a soft purr that broke the tension in the air. Ky smiled down at her, his expression softening despite his sardonic tone.

"You've tamed us both, haven't you?" he murmured, his voice low and intimate. "A little lioness ruling her kingdom."

Artemis purred louder, her victory complete. In that moment, it was clear—no vampire, no matter their rank, could resist her charms.

❅──────✧❅Lie❅✧──────❅

The chamber was dimly lit, casting elongated shadows across the cold stone walls. Urd sat in his high-backed chair, the faint glow of candlelight flickering off his golden hair and sharp, unyielding gaze. His eyes were fixed on Ky Luc, who stood before him, arms casually crossed, his signature smirk twitching at the corners of his lips. Yet, even Ky's usual air of amusement couldn't mask the tension that had settled like a storm cloud between them.

"You killed a human in my district," Urd began, his tone calm but sharp enough to cut glass. "Why?"

Ky shrugged with exaggerated nonchalance. "One of my whims, my lord."

Urd's eyes narrowed. "You lie. You always follow the rules I've set, even when you don't like them. So, again, why?"

For a moment, Ky's smirk faltered, but he quickly recovered, his tone laced with mockery. "I was hungry."

Urd sighed, though his eyes grew colder. "You didn't drink the blood. If hunger was your excuse, why leave it untouched?"

Ky's crimson eyes flickered, his smirk now gone entirely. "It didn't seem like a good meal."

Urd's stare sharpened like a predator sizing up its prey. He leaned forward slightly, his voice dropping to an edge that made even Ky Luc stiffen. "You claim you killed the human because you were hungry. Then you claim you didn't drink because he wasn't a good meal. And yet, you were seen fleeing the scene only to return later. You seemed in a hurry. That doesn't add up, Ky."

The silence hung heavy between them, broken only by the faint scratching of Artemis's claws on the stone floor as she padded into the room. Without a sound, she leapt onto Ky's shoulder. Her small, golden form perched there like a queen on a throne, her blue eyes narrowing at Urd. Then, to everyone's surprise, Artemis placed her soft paws on Ky's head and stared directly at Urd, her gaze unyielding, a low growl rumbling in her throat.

Urd's cold expression deepened, suspicion etched into every line of his face. Artemis never behaved like this. Normally, she played the role of an aloof queen, content to watch her two "jesters"—Urd and Ky—bicker and banter. But this was different. She wasn't amused; she was protective. Defensive. Against him.

"Interesting," Urd murmured, his voice chillingly soft. "Defending him, are we?"

Ky sighed dramatically, breaking the tension for a moment. "It seems I can't lie very well, my lord. And since Artemis herself appears ready to wage war on my behalf, I suppose I have no choice but to speak."

Urd's gaze didn't waver. "Then speak."

Ky's smirk returned, but it was subdued, lacking his usual bravado. "The boy I killed had Artemis in his grip. He was going to kill her. For fun, I guess."

For a moment, Urd's cold mask faltered, his eyes widening imperceptibly. It was a small crack, but Ky saw it, and so did Artemis, who hopped down from Ky's shoulder and sat between them like a sentinel.

"You mean to tell me," Urd said slowly, his voice like ice, "that you killed a human because of her?"

"Well, she is not just a cat," Ky corrected, his smirk creeping back. "Your cat. I thought saying I killed for her sake would be... bad publicity, you could say. But it's the truth."

Urd leaned back in his chair, silent, his gaze drifting to Artemis. She looked up at him, her blue eyes calm now, her tail swishing lazily. Finally, Urd spoke, his tone measured but firm. "You've done well, Ky. You protected what is mine. Killing him was the right decision."

Ky raised an eyebrow, surprised by the admission. "And the rumors, my lord? Surely they'll spread."

Urd's lips curved into a faint smile, cold and dangerous. "Let them. Most lack the courage to step within my shadow, let alone spread whispers about me."

Despite the smirk Ky wore, he couldn't shake the gravity of the moment. Urd's acknowledgment was rare and powerful, but so was the unspoken warning in his gaze: Artemis was not to be harmed or threatened, not even indirectly.

Days later, to Ky's surprise, there were no rumors. No whispers in the dark corners of the city about his supposed transgression. It was as though the event had been collectively erased from memory, buried beneath an unspoken agreement that it was too dangerous to discuss.

Ky leaned against a railing overlooking the city, Artemis curled on his lap. He stroked her fur absently, his thoughts drifting back to Urd's words. "It seems," he murmured, "you've made yourself untouchable, little lioness."

Artemis purred, her blue eyes glinting with satisfaction as if she understood every word.

-END-

A/N: 📖✨ Just one chapter left in my archive! I'll be releasing it soon—stay tuned! 😊🎉