Chapter Twelve
For the rest of the week, while Gareth went to work, Adalyn trained with Marm Scarlet.
The older woman taught her how to walk, how to talk.
All the ins and outs she would need at court.
Which fork to use. Dancing. Bowing. How to address people.
There were more rules than she thought possible, and had no clue how she was going to remember everything.
When their time came at an end, Marm Scarlet took both of her hands and studied her.
“You are a natural,” the older woman told her. “I’ve taught many young women how to be a thrall, but I’ve never seen anyone comprehend and execute proper etiquette as fast as you. You will do wonderfully at court.”
The praise was unexpected, and it made Adalyn happy that her teacher was proud of her.
“Thank you,” Adalyn said softly. “I never would’ve been able to do it if hadn’t been for you. You are truly a miracle worker.”
For the first time since she’d met Marm Scarlet, a small smile graced the teacher’s face.
“Remember, the vampire court is a beautiful place, but not necessarily the other thralls you will meet. Not everyone is content with the choices they made.”
Adalyn frowned. “You mean, some women don’t want to be with the vampire they chose?”
“Thralls aren’t defined by gender,” Marm Scarlet said. “And some, who crave the lifestyle, will latch on to any vampire for wealth.”
“You make it sound predatory.”
Her eyebrows rose with a head nod. “For some, yes. Don’t get me wrong, there are far more nicer thralls than not nice ones, and you’ll have to figure out who is who.”
“Understood.”
Marm Scarlet patted her hand. “Take care of yourself, my dear. You were one of my best students.”
With a graceful wave, she collected her purse and shawl, and Adalyn escorted her out the door, watching as the older woman drove away.
****
Adalyn hugged each person good-bye while Gareth waited patiently by the car.
Chester was already behind the wheel while Gabi sat in the passenger seat.
Gareth’s bodyguards, including Brennen, followed in their cars, although they would not be traveling with them since security at the capitol was top notch.
“I’m going to miss you,” she said to Mrs. Brenda. “I’m going to miss you all.”
“We’ll be right here when you return,” Jessie said as Adalyn moved to hug her.
“Tell us all the stories from court,” Amy added cheekily.
Adalyn laughed. “I will.”
With a last wave to them and to Lionel, Gareth helped her into the back of the car and then they were off toward the airport where a private jet waited to fly them to the capital, Obsidian North.