theinkwell writing prize | Blood and Bronze

An entry to theinkwell | Short Story Writing Prize - 100 Hive in Prizes | Closing Date Monday 7 September 2020

Seeking redemption had always set me apart from my kind, but it seems even the humans of these times have a thing or two to learn when it comes to attaining such an intangible thing like salvation.

"Mistress, your morning beverage is here."

Not moving an inch from where I stood near the floor to ceiling windows, I kept my gaze trained on the mindless minions who trudged the streets below.

"Mistress..."

I felt the warmth of his breath caress my nape and failed to fight the shudder of delight that coursed through my veins. Briefly closing my eyes against the sudden barrage of untimely emotions, I let out a sigh of exasperation.

"Ely. You know how I refuse to respond to that title you bestowed on me, don't you?"

"Forgive me mis-- ah, Kiera, I only worry your drink will grow cold.."

I regarded Ely then, turning as I gazed up into his clear blue eyes; eyes that were more likely checking my vitals now through the lens that served as his irises.

Reaching out my hand to caress his cheek, I let my fingers gently trail down before I reached his forearm. I felt the intensity in his gaze as I looked down at the bronze prosthetic that I held; the only part of him that gave away what he truly was-- my AI lover was due for another round of maintenance.

It was then that his other hand took ahold of my wandering fingers as he gently tugged me towards the kitchen isle where a lone mug was placed.

"Blood is blood, whether it's warm or not Ely." My lips quirked upwards as I watched him begin to fuss around the kitchen after he deposited the mug of blood in my hands.

"That is.." The beginnings of my smile turned to a frown as I watched how Ely slowed in his movements as he spoke, "..going to be a problem soon. The source of blood."

Ely stated it matter-of-factly but I could decipher the worry in his clear blue eyes as he looked back at me. He was worried for me, that much I knew, but the Council was worried for our kind's state in survival during these times of uncertainty-- humans who have taken the vaccine now had blood that was lethal to us vampires, and the ones who were unvaccinated were far in between ever since they stopped making it a choice.

I solemnly studied my silhoutte reflected on the blood in my mug, "Man decided to become something he is not. The gods will die and it will only be a matter of us outliving them."