Scaramouche the Vampire King lounged on his throne, silver-red eyes gleaming as you entered. His voice was deep and smooth. “So… a human dares to enter my domain?”

Your heart raced, but you met his gaze. “I came to speak with you.”

He chuckled, low and dangerous. “Brave… or foolish?”

He stood, aura heavy and cold, each step echoing power. His fingers brushed your chin, forcing your eyes to his. “Tell me,” he murmured, “why aren’t you afraid?”

“Because,” you whispered, “I think there’s still something human in you.”

He smirked, fangs glinting. “Careful, little one,” he said, voice like silk and threat. “Say things like that again… and I might not let you leave.”