A/N: Hi. So here's a swan queen vampire AU. You can say Enchanted Forest given the time period. So this is a vampire Regina and Familiar Emma fic. Regina is a fledgling and was basically born a vampire to human parents. She is definitely an undead but her heart is very much alive. Emma Swan is a human that has accepted the job of feeding her and being her companion.

They are fairly young at the beginning of this. About 12. Anyway, young SQ is one of my favorite versions of them.

Have you guys seen the film "Let me In"? This is slightly inspired by that but not really.

I was like screw it, VAMPIRES! Yeah! Anyway, I own nothing. Sorry for mistakes, warnings for blood, blood drinking, violence and mentions of murder. If any of that bothers you please stop reading here. After this I am no longer responsible.

Enjoy.

Just One Bite

Cora knew from the moment that she had held her daughter in her arms for the first time that something was just not right. For one thing she was cold. Babies are not supposed to be cold. Also her daughter had no breath and no heart beat. She had all of the signs of a still born but instead of lying lifeless in her blanket she was crying, loud and strong. Despite her being technically dead she was very much alive. From that moment Cora should have feared her child. Everything in her told her that she should have gotten rid of her but once Cora looked into the porcelain-like face of her little girl her heart was stolen and she couldn't bear to part with her. So she kept her and decided to raise the princess as a normal little girl and in Queen Cora's eyes, she was.

Despite the princess being virtually dead, she continued to grow. In fact she grew faster than most children. Each year was about two for her so in six years she was twelve. When she hit twelve however, her ageing began to slow down a bit and she began ageing normally but by then she was already older than most of her planned playmates, as well as her betrothed. Because of this and a number of other reasons, the princess never socialized much with anyone other than her mother and father. Occasionally her Nanny but everyone else was excluded from the young girl's world.

It wasn't exactly Regina's fault nor her parents' fault. They just felt that it was safer to keep the young woman indoors and away from prying eyes. For one thing they didn't know how to explain her rapid ageing. Also Princess Regina had an odd sensitivity to light. She couldn't go out during the day time or she would inevitably burn and for some reason she could never stomach food. Cora couldn't understand how her daughter survived without food or sunlight for all of those years. She was baffled and worried. No child could survive that and she couldn't comprehend her daughter's condition no matter how hard she tried. Cora was just about at her wits end until one day everything changed.

One night, Cora was coming to see her daughter and wake her for the evening. There were always special precautions when doing so. It always had to be when the sun had set and only non natural light filtered in. The first couple of moments after waking, Regina had to be in total darkness. Cora understood this so usually she was the one to wake her daughter. That particular evening Cora walked into her daughter's chambers and set down the lantern she was carrying right outside her daughter's bedroom door. She carefully turned the golden knob and stepped into the room. She immediately heard something. Something that made her blood run cold. It was a crunching, growling and heavy breathing all combined into one. Sort of like an animal feeding on live prey. It was a chilling sound and Cora was instantly startled. She reached outside the door and grabbed the lantern. She lifted the light, deciding that her daughter had to be uncomfortable for a moment and shined it into the room. She gasped and almost dropped the light at what she saw when her gaze landed on the center of the room.

She thought her eyes were deceiving her.

There her daughter was, seated on the black rug in the center of the room. Right in the girl's lap was a servant girl slightly older than her. Regina was holding on to the girl's lifeless body tightly and her mouth was fused to her neck. Cora screamed in fright of course and clutched a hand to her chest. Regina looked up at her and Cora's heart leaped out of her chest. There was blood all around her little girl's face and long animal like fangs were protruding from her mouth. The girl's naturally dark eyes were pitch black and her usually pale skin was brightened with color. Upon seeing her mother the girl's trance was broken. Her fangs retracted with a sharp click and her eyes returned to their natural brown color. She looked down at the corpse in her lap and screamed. The blood was running on to her white gown. She scrambled backwards and her back hit her bed. She brought her knees up to her chest and hugged them. She looked up at her mother with fear in her eyes. "What have I done?" She whispered. Cora was at a loss for words. How do you explain to your child that she's killed someone? Regina buried her face in her knees and cried. The sobs were shaking her small frame. She's always been small for her age. Cora supposed it had to do with her illness. Whatever it was. By this point Doctors had come from near and far to diagnose the young girl but none of them could quite figure it out. Which was just more baffling. Her daughter appeared to be draining the girl's life force, her blood. Cora's eyes drifted to the girl's corpse then back to her daughter. Regina was weeping heavily then. Cora didn't know what to do to help her child. She knew that she didn't fear her daughter even after seeing that. She should have but she didn't. Her motherly instinct kicked in immediately and she made her way across the room. Regina looked up and saw her approaching. She whimpered and scrambled away from her with her hand outstretched. "Don't!" She cried. "I don't want to hurt you." Cora knew that she wouldn't. She just knew. Regina was her little princess and her little girl loved her mother and Cora loved her with everything in her.

"You won't hurt me." Cora whispered back.

"How do you know?" Regina whispered. Bloody tears were running down Regina's Cheeks. She always bled when she cried. When she was smaller, it would make Cora a bit queasy but now she was used to It. Cora smiled and knelt beside her daughter. She gathered the princess into her arms and squeezed her. She noticed how warm her daughter's body was. She couldn't tell if that was peculiar or normal since the girl was always cold as ice.

"I just do." She replied. That must have been enough because Regina sighed and snuggled against her.

"I'm sorry." She whispered.

"What happened, Regina?" She just needed to know. Regina sighed and hugged her tighter.

"I was so hungry." Regina explained. "I've never eaten. Then she came in and she smelled like... food. Not normal food but food that I wanted to eat. Before I could stop myself, I was on her. She screamed so loud and begged me to stop but I couldn't." She began sobbing again. Cora shushed her and cradled her head. She began rocking Regina the way she did when she was a baby.

"It's going to be okay."

"But I killed her." Regina cried.

"Shhh..." Cora shushed her sharply. "No more of that. It was not your fault."

Regina obediently nodded against her. "What happens now, Mother?" She asked softly.

"Now, Mother will take care of it." Cora whispered. "But I need you to get cleaned up." She said pulling away. But Regina hugged her tighter.

"Can you just stay a little longer?" She asked.

Cora placed a kiss on her daughter's head. "Of course I can." She said giving her daughter another squeeze. After Regina calmed down Cora was going to deal with the little servant girl problem so that her little girl never had to worry about it again.

And deal with it Cora did. She and the king cleaned up the mess and got rid of the girl's body. It was cold and cruel to do so but it was better than the kingdom finding out that Regina had killed someone. Her daughter's life was far more important than some servant. Once the deed was done Cora went about her life. Regina however did not get over it. She locked herself in her room and refused to come out for days. Cora's heart ached. She went into protective mother mode and pulled out book after book trying to find a magical solution to her daughter's problem. It took her weeks but she eventually stumbled upon something. There were recordings of beings like Regina. They were referred to as 'Hormines Nocturni'. These creatures of the night are described as dark and could only be turned into such. In rare cases they are born to practitioners of the Dark Arts. In punishment for their sins and the things they've done. Despite Regina's condition she was not dark or evil but she did have the other traits. Cora has done plenty of dark and evil things in her lifetime but she had never seen her daughter as a punishment. Her princess was one of the best things that has ever happened to her. So she didn't understand that part but what caught her eye was the fact that they need to feed off of humans to live. They drink their blood to be more specific so, that explained Regina draining the servant girl and why she didn't like human food. Cora needed to think of a way to correct that but as she read she was sadden to find that there was no cure. She also found that these creatures were shapeshifters by nature. They could shift into wolves, rats, cats and even bats. She was unaware and she wondered if Regina knew what she was capable of. There was also a skill called glamoring, that they possessed. It was a sort of mind control. Cora wouldn't awaken that talent for her daughter. But she was really impressed by the fact that these beings both born and made possessed immortality. She liked the idea of her daughter living young and beautiful forever. Maybe that was a gift that her daughter would perhaps share with her mother?

Either way Cora found what she needed. She needed her daughter to stay fed because a starving vampire is a scary thing. They tend to go on ravenous rampages devouring everything in sight. Some of them are very sexual and like to have sex with their victims in the process. Most wouldn't stop until they were sated both hunger-wise and sexually and that could go on until the sun came up or until they were stopped. By stopped she meant by a stake to the heart, sunlight or silver. Cora couldn't allow her little girl to become such a thing or to meet such an end.

This needed to be dealt with.

Upon gathering the books Cora tucked them away where no one could find them. She didn't need anyone to come along and stumble across them and put the pieces together. Only a select few needed to know and she wanted to keep it that way.

That same night she went to her daughter and tried to feed her. Regina couldn't. She wouldn't feed from her own mother. Her father tried then and Regina rejected him as well. Days went by and Regina became sluggish and pale again. She was starving. Cora remembered that fledgelings don't need to feed all of the time at first but once they start they have to keep doing it. Regina fed for the first time so that meant that they have to keep feeding her. But if she wouldn't drink from her parents they had to find her sustenance elsewhere. The staff was out of the question since they couldn't risk Regina killing another servant. They couldn't have staff disappearing from their castle, people would get suspicious after a while.

No they had to get someone that people wouldn't miss.

That's when Cora got an idea. Her husband disagreed and claimed that it was wrong but Cora didn't care. Her little girl came first. That's why she sent a message to the local children's home. She asked them to send three girls around the age of thirteen or older to her. Her little fledgling needed to eat and how often would one of those children get to stay in a castle? She saw this as an opportunity for everyone involved. Regina got a meal while Cora did not have to deal with the messiness of having to clean up her daughter's messes that she created when she became too hungry or depraved.

She understood what her daughter was now. She was in many ways a beast. A creature of the night. She wasn't just some frail little girl. She was a powerful being and she needed to be cared for accordingly. That's why Cora had to pick the best of the girls. Only the best for her daughter. That's what was on her mind from the moment that Michael their butler announced the arrival of her guests.

She nodded her head and swept out of her study.

She traveled through the dark castle hallways. She passed her daughter's chambers and looked at the door. She placed her hand to it and sighed. She wanted to tell her that she loved her and that everything was going to be alright. Mommy was going to make it right.

At that she pushed off of the door and continued down the hallway. Her dark red gown sweeping across the dark marble as her heels clicked along. She reached a spiral staircase that was covered in red carpeting. A guard was standing there waiting for her. The young man bowed his head and Cora dipped hers in acknowledgement. The young man made a gesture for her to go ahead. Cora nodded and was on her way. She headed down the stairs taking careful graceful steps. She could hear the sound of the guard's boots behind her. Hearing him gave her comfort but she didn't exactly need him for this. Meeting with a trio of twelve to fourteen year olds would be simple enough.

She stopped on the bottom floor. She had the girls taken to the patio right above the garden for tea. She could observe how they conduct themselves and that way she could determine which of the young women was right for her daughter. She walked across the room to another hallway that led to the throne room and through there was the patio.

She stepped out into the bright mid afternoon sunlight and she inhaled the smell of the fresh flowers and foliage. It was a lovely day. A perfect day for tea out on the patio. Her heart squeezed when she thought that her daughter should have been out there. She couldn't even enjoy a cup of tea with her mother because it made her ill. Cora hated that her little girl was suffering with loneliness and feelings of inadequacy because she couldn't do such things with her mother but Cora did not feel disappointment in her little girl. It was not her fault that she was the way she was. Cora sighed and pushed those thoughts away. She had business to conduct. With that thought she headed over to the table where tea was being served. She forced a smile when she saw the three girls.

They definitely looked the parts of orphans. There was a brunette girl with big blue eyes sitting there in an off-white tattered dress. Cora assumed that it must have been white at one time but wear and tear. Beside her was a girl that was almost identical to her in a pink dress that was equally ratty. Cora assumed they must have been related some how. Sisters perhaps. Then on the end was a little blonde child. She appeared to be right along Regina's age. The girl was very fair, with very soft princess-like features and hair the color of sunflowers. The child's rosey cheeks, pink lips and bright green eyes made her even more appealing. It was like she was looking at sunshine in a human form. Upon seeing the little blonde she just knew. She knew that that was the girl she wanted for her daughter. She saw it like this, Regina had never seen the sun and she never will but this girl was sunshine. Her features alone will bring light to her daughter's world. That's what they all needed. Just a little bit of light in that dark castle.

Her decision was already made but she had to be fair and address all of her guests so she cleared her throat pulling the young women's attention. Two sets of blue eyes landed on her and one green pair. Cora noticed the girl's slightly raggedy green dress that brought out her lovely eyes. The little blonde girl smiled first but all of the girls stood and bowed to Cora.

Cora smiled as she made her way to the table. She was pleased with their respect and politeness. "Please sit." She said as she approached the table. A servant quickly pulled her chair out and she sat. The servant pushed the chair in and stood by the tea table. The girls sat as well. They all looked up at her and smiled. Three such innocent faces just like her own child's. She should have felt bad about what she was doing but she didn't. Even though she was practically buying one of them like cattle, they will still have a better life there with her. "Welcome to my home." She said with a warm smile.

"Thank you for having us, your majesty." One of the girls with the mousy hair said. Cora smiled and nodded.

"You are very welcome." She said with a nod. She motioned to the servant and she began filling their teacups. Once that was complete Cora gestured to the spread of various types of biscuits, finger sandwiches and cakes. "Please help yourselves."

As soon as the words left her mouth the girls dug in. Now it wasn't as barbaric as Cora would have thought. It was actually quite calm and the girls took their time selecting. The two brown haired girls chatted amongst themselves about the spread while the little blonde stayed mostly quiet as she picked up a few biscuits and cakes and placed them on her plate. She seemed to be very quiet and the other girls were ignoring her. She looked left out. When her big green eyes wandered up to hers Cora smiled at her.

"What is your name?" Cora asked quietly. The girl looked surprised but smiled. Her smile lit up her whole face and the space surrounding her. Cora had been right about the sunlight. She couldn't wait for her daughter to see this girl.

"Emma Swan." The little girl said softly as her eyes lowered to the table cloth. Cora nodded. Usually orphaned children do not have last names. She figured that name was given to her by the children's home.

"How old are you?" Cora asked gently.

"Twelve." Emma said with a bigger smile. Cora noted that she had the cutest dimples. "I will be thirteen in a few weeks." She supplied.

Cora nodded and brought her cup to her mouth. She blew into the cup to cool down her tea. She kept her eyes on Emma and Emma's curious eyes stayed on hers. She liked this girl. She was sweet, kind, quiet and most importantly bold. Regina would like her as well. She noticed out of the corner of her eye that the other girls had settled down. She watched them for a moment as they sipped their tea.

"This is very good, your majesty." One of the girls said as she lowered her cup. "We don't get tea this good in the orphanage."

"We only get tea if we're sick." The other added. Cora nodded. She knew this. There was barely enough food at children's homes. That's why she provided a very generous donation to theirs for their time.

"What are your names, Dears?" She asked only out of politeness because she didn't need to know their names because she will never see them again after tea. "How old are you?"

"I'm Gerta." The bigger of the two said. "And I am fourteen."

Cora nodded. She doubted she would remember any of this after that day.

"And I am Greta." The other said. "I am twelve."

Emma looked at the two girls who were smiling at Cora. Cora dipped her head. "It is very nice to meet you."

"Thank you." The girls said in unison. Yes. They definitely were siblings.

"Where is the Princess?" Greta asked and began looking around as if Regina would just pop up out of the bushes. Cora cleared her throat. She felt suddenly tense.

"Princess Regina is not feeling very well." Cora explained. Emma's face took on one of sympathy but said nothing while the other girls dramatically sighed and shook their heads.

"Well I do hope she feels better soon." Gerta said. Cora nodded.

"I shall pass along your messages." She said. Emma remained quiet as she nibbled on her cookie. Cora appreciated the girl's knowledge on when to be quiet. That was useful. Cora looked amongst the girls. "I understand that you all have been told why you are here, correct?"

Emma nodded while the other two girls shook their heads. "No one told us." The younger sister said. Well someone told Emma. Now why would they do that? Cora shook her head.

"Well," she began shortly. "I need a servant girl to care for my daughter."

"Oh. We can do that." Gerta said. "We clean at the orphanage all of the time."

Greta nodded. "We do."

Emma remained quiet and sipped her tea. Cora smiled at that. She was such a well-behaved child. She was easy to like. She was not only looking for someone to serve and feed her daughter but for that person to be a companion as well. She doubted that Regina would like Greta or Gerta very much. Regina gets overwhelmed easily due to her lack of socialization so too demanding personalities like that were not healthy for her daughter.

Cora fell silent again and just observed. Emma quietly ate and drank. She seemed so calm. Her energy was nice and that's what Regina needed. Her decision was made and by the end of tea Cora was ready to make her announcement.

She stood and cleared her throat. "Okay in the half an hour we spent together I have observed you all." She clasped her hands together. "And my observation has led me to this decision." She watched the two girls shift as they watched her in anticipation. Emma just gazed at her. "And I choose... Emma." She said motioning to the blonde child. The other two girls' mouths fell open while Emma remained quiet and just looked up at Cora. She could tell that the other girls wanted to protest but they knew better.

"Alright then, your majesty." Gerta said sadly.

"Thank for the opportunity." Greta said solemnly. Cora sighed and fought back a roll of her eyes. She nodded and forced a smile.

"Thank you for your time." She said kindly with a dip of her head. She looked over at her servant who was standing next to the table with her head bowed. She wasn't much older than them. "Delilah is going to show you to the door." She said with a glance at the young girl. The servant nodded. "And our Butler will see you out. Once again, thank you for your time."

The girls nodded. Sensing the blatant dismissal they stood up. They gave Cora a polite curtsey with phony smiles. The servant girl came around the table and walked over to the stairwell that led back to the castle. The girls looked back at Emma and gave her a long dirty look then turned their heads up and began following the girl. Cora watched as the girls practically stomped up the stairs barely containing their tantrums and she knew for sure that she had made the right decision in young Emma. Emma watched the other young women go with a furrowed brow and her bottom lip poked out. Such an innocent little thing, Cora thought. Just like her own child. At least this Emma girl would be a good influence. Cora cleared her throat and gave the little blonde a smile. She gestured to the rest of the pastries on the table.

"Would you like some more food, Emma?" She asked as she sat back down. Emma looked at her then back down at the food. She looked hesitant then she looked back up at Cora. She shook her head, her golden curls swinging back and forth.

"No thank you, your majesty." She said sweetly and she was sincere unlike her friends. "I do not want you to think that I am a piglet." She giggled at end of it and Cora noticed the warm melodic sound. It was quite adorable. It reminded her that her daughter never laughs. Maybe this will change that.

Cora chuckled then. Such a sweet girl. "No, it is quite alright. It usually goes to waste. Regina doesn't eat... much." She caught herself and sighed. "Please help yourself. You've earned it for getting the job."

Emma smiled wide then and grabbed another biscuit. Cora was glad that she was eating. She would need her strength for what was going to happen that night. Cora shifted in the black leather padded seat that matched the beautiful onyx table perfectly. She gave Emma a smile as she watched the girl shove another biscuit in her mouth. She really was quite charming and she figured that her daughter would enjoy her company.

"Do you know what the job entails, Emma?" Cora asked as Emma took a sip of her tea that had possibly cooled down by then. Cora waved her hand and reheated the teapot. Emma looked over with wide eyes then back up at Cora. Cora simply gave the girl a smirk. People were usually impressed by her show of magic. "Do you understand what I need of you, Dear?"

Emma shook her head and snapped herself out of it. She nodded her head. "Yes, you need someone to care for your daughter Princess Regina."

"Well, yes." Cora said with a shrug of her shoulder. "That is part of it, Dear." She reached over and grabbed the teapot and began filling Emma's cup. The young blonde smiled at her, clearly touched by the small gesture of kindness. The Queen assumed that the girl didn't get much of it in that orphanage. Queen Cora set the pot down and settled back into her seat. She watched Emma for a moment as she finished one of the little lemon squares, obediently waiting for Cora to continue. "Well, I told a fib to the other girls." She explained. Emma's brows rose as she went to sip her tea. "My daughter is actually perfectly healthy." She shrugged again. "In a way."

Emma furrowed her brows. Cora could tell that the child had questions but was either unsure if she should ask or didn't know what to ask and Cora could basically see the wheels turning in that yellow head of hers. The queen decided to put her out of her misery when she continued. "My daughter is different, special." She said. Emma nodded and continued to drink her tea as she listened closely. "You see, Regina has a condition. This condition prevents her from coming out into the daylight therefore making her have to sleep during the day. She cannot eat well but she has many other attributes. But the most important thing she needs is someone to help her survive." She stopped and watched Emma. She had on the cutest confused puppy expression. "She needs to feed off of others to live and to strive."

Emma's eyes widened and the cup stopped mid way to her lips. The little girl leaned back and tilted her head. She was trying to understand and piece together what Princess Regina's mother had said to her. Cora fell silent, giving Emma permission to speak. "W-wh-what does that mean?" Emma stammered out. The little girl looked so scared. Cora raised her hand in a placating gesture.

"No, no, no." Cora soothed softly. "No, Dear. She will not kill you."

"Then what happens?" Emma asked.

"She will bite you, on your neck or on your wrist. A little pinch." She said. "She will drink from your blood. The warmth and nutrients within it will keep her healthy."

Emma looked flabbergasted. She obviously couldn't fathom anyone drinking her blood. "Why does she need that?" She asked.

Cora sighed. "She's not like you and me. She's different. I'm pretty sure she's of a completely different species entirely."

"What is she?" Emma asked quietly.

"Hormines Nocturni." Cora explained. "She is a dark creature. One of the night. She was born of great darkness but she does not have any in her. She is a gentle soul and very kind and loving. Traits that she has not gotten from me."

"No one has seen the Princess in years." Emma muttered more to herself. "Perhaps that's why."

Cora hummed in agreement. "Indeed it is. Regina has to remain in doors in the daytime but she is free to roam at night."

Emma nodded. "Alright."

Cora watched the girl and she looked suddenly scared. She was shaking slightly and her eyes were darting from side to side. Maybe she had been wrong. Maybe Emma Swan wasn't as brave and bold as she thought. Oh well. She could just erase her memories of their conversation and send her back to the children's home. "If you are not comfortable with it, that's alright. You can just go back home."

Emma began nibbling her lip in thought. She looked greatly torn. The orphanage was not a home. But Cora couldn't blame her for not wanting to be used like cattle for the queen's daughter. This could go either way. Cora was not going to tell her about the bedroom and wardrobe that was waiting for her. She felt that Emma needed to make the decision because she wanted to. Emma's eyes met Cora's and Cora noticed that the green of them rivaled the very trees and shrubbery around them. She has never seen eyes that green. They were absolutely stunning. After a moment that appeared to stretch on forever, Emma nodded. "Alright." She sighed. She drew her eyebrows together. "You said it doesn't hurt?"

Cora shook her head. She didn't know for sure but Regina's fangs weren't very long. They were small because she was. She assumed they didn't hurt. She hoped they didn't for Emma's sake. "No. As I said Regina is very gentle."

Emma nodded. "Will I live here?"

Cora nodded then. Emma was already beginning to agree so why not? "Yes."

"What happens if she does not eat?" Emma asked softly and curiously.

Cora decided to be honest. "She gets very sick and weak." Okay not fully honest.

Emma nodded with her lips pressed into a tight line and a crease of determination in her brows. "Okay. I want to help your daughter. I accept the job."

Cora was surprised slightly. Emma had looked so afraid before but the goodness within her must have won out. The Queen nodded with a smile. Relief washed over her. Regina was so weak these days and she needed to eat but Cora would have to monitor her first feeding session with Emma Swan.

Cora clapped her hands together and giggled happily. "Oh Emma Swan," she sighed. "You do not know how much that pleases me. Regina would be so pleased as well." The last part was a lie because Regina had no idea. Regina would be upset in fact. She didn't agree with using people. She was like her father in that way. "You do understand that you are not only food for my daughter." Cora explained. "My daughter does not have many friends and it would be nice for her to have a companion. As I said before she is not difficult to get along with."

A smile rolled across Emma's face then and her dimples dipped deeply as her eyes sparkled. "I would love to be her friend." She said happily. Cora nodded then.

"That is just wonderful!" Cora exclaimed. Emma giggled then softly. She really liked this child and she hoped everything worked out because Regina would like her too.

Emma continued to smile, her light rivaling the sky above them. She stayed quiet as the two of them shared a smile. Cora was just too happy and relieved. Emma had no idea what she had done.

"Emma," the Queen began. "I would like to show you to your chambers."

Emma gasped and her eyes widened. "Chambers?"

"Yes. You are my daughter's caregiver now. You will tend to her when she needs you. You understand that you are very important so you will be treated as such." Cora explained. Emma nodded seriously.

"Alright."

Cora nodded back and stood from her seat. It was late. Regina would be rousing soon and she wanted to have Emma ready for her. Emma quickly stood as well. She watched Cora carefully. Cora chuckled. She reached her hand out. "Welcome to our home, Emma Swan." She said as Emma took her hand and they shook. Cora released the girl's hand but not before noticing how warm it felt. Her daughter was so cold to the touch when she hasn't fed and Cora no longer wanted her husband the king touching her so, she hadn't felt warmth like that in a very long time.

"Thank you very much." Emma said softly.

Cora smiled and rubbed her hand down the front of her dress, smoothing out the invisible wrinkles. She gave Emma a smile and the girl returned it. "Right this way, Emma Swan." The Queen said as she stepped away from the table and began walking across the white stone of the patio. Emma scurried behind her struggling to catch up. They arrived at the stairs and the guard bowed upon seeing Cora and then he straightened up and greeted Emma with a dip of his head. Cora brushed passed the man and Emma followed her up the stairs. She gave the guard a smile which he quickly returned. "I hope the room is to your liking." Cora said as they reached the top landing and headed into the Dark Palace. "If not, please let me know, we need you to be comfortable."

"Yes, your majesty." Emma said as she followed Cora into the castle, ready to begin her charge.

After Emma was shown to her large extravagant room that was dressed in more velvet and fur than she had ever imagined, she was whisked away into another room and bathed by three peasant girls. After her bath they proceeded to primp and polish her to perfection. By the time they were finished, Emma did not even recognize herself. She stood in the full length mirror in her chambers and smiled at herself. She was dressed in another green dress, a forest green. This one was made of a soft billowy material that Emma had never seen before. She loved it. It was so soft and light. She never thought she would wear anything like that ever. Especially with the life she has had.

Emma didn't remember her parents. They had left her on the doorstep of the children's home when she was no more than a day old. The woman that owned the place, not a very nice woman, took Emma in. She was the one who named Emma. As Emma grew within the orphanage she had come to find that the children didn't like her very much. She never understood why and none of them bothered to tell her. There was one boy. His name was August. He was much older than her and had taken Emma under his wing as something akin to baby sister. He protected her and taught her because the people that ran the home didn't care if they could read, write and do arithmetic or not. He always told her stories when she was scared. Her favorite was the Ugly Duckling. He had told her that so much that she knew it by heart. He also explained that she was so much like the main character of the story. Trying to find her way and not exactly liking herself but he promised her that one day she will turn into a beautiful swan and she believed him. The story touched her and she carried that lesson with her. That was why when Queen Cora asked for her name, she automatically tacked Swan on to it. No one ever called her that but Emma had been calling herself that in her mind for a while. August would have been proud. The young man was no longer in her life since he turned seventeen a year ago and they threw him out on his ass claiming he was old enough to take care of himself. Emma couldn't understand how. He was still a kid and never had to take care of himself. But on the same hand August was the strongest person she knew. He would survive. When he left he promised that he would come back for Emma when she was old enough and the two of them would travel the world. She couldn't wait around though and she felt bad that when he returned she wouldn't be there but she had to take care of herself. He would understand that.

Emma had never had anyone care for her aside from him and since he's been gone she's been on her own. She wondered what he would think of the job she had taken. He probably wouldn't approve.

Either way, she didn't care. She hoped she didn't disappoint him but right now this is what was best for her. It was better than the home where she was ignored or made fun of. The place wasn't even worth the trouble since they barely had food and dressed the children in rags. She also hated how they made them clean constantly. They were always working. At least the queen would allow her to rest.

This was her life now. The life she had chosen. She was still unsure of what she was to do. She understood that Regina was going to drink her blood. The idea caused a chill to flow through her and she was slightly afraid but she was even more curious. The idea was scary but Emma knew that she had made the right decision and she didn't regret it at all.

The Queen arrived shortly after Emma was done getting dolled up. Emma was still admiring her new appearance. She couldn't get over how they had done her hair in big bouncy curls that neatly came down her shoulders and back. A green bow sat atop her head. She was also in full make-up. Well soft pink lipstick and a little blush. It made her look so grown up. She was so enthused with herself that she hadn't even heard Cora enter the room until the woman cleared her throat. Emma spun around and faced the woman. The Queen looked her over for a moment. Her dark eyes focused and examining everything. Emma shifted under Cora's scrutiny. Cora eventually nodded to herself with a hum of approval.

"Very well." She said not unkindly. "You look lovely, Dear."

Emma smiled brightly at the queen's approval. Emma ate up the compliments. It was not like she had a mother to give them to her. Or father. Emm dipped her head. "Thank you, your majesty"

Cora nodded. "You are quite welcome." Her gaze shifted from Emma to the window behind her. Her dark eyebrows came together and she continued speaking without tearing her gaze away, "Princess Regina will be awake soon." She noted.

Emma nodded and turned to the window as well. The sun was setting on the horizon right behind the hilltops. The sky was painted in a gentle burnt orange with sprinkles of gold and a soft red almost pink. It was a sight and Emma noted that they didn't get views like that in their little village. She turned back to Cora. "Shall I go greet her?" Emma asked eagerly. She hoped she didn't sound too excited but Emma has never had a friend other than August so certainly not a girl her age. She was excited and she couldn't wait to meet the elusive princess.

Cora looked surprised for a moment at Emma's suggestion then her look of shock turned to one of pride. "What a sweet thoughtful girl you are."

Emma smiled a little. The Queen never minded pouring on the compliments and she liked it. "Well... I am eager to meet her, your majesty." Emma had no idea why but her cheeks began heating up then and she looked away from the queen, missing the curious look on the woman's face.

Cora chuckled. "You will not be disappointed. Regina is as sweet as she is beautiful." She turned on her heel, "Come let's go greet her."

Emma followed the woman out of the room and shut the door behind her. She wasn't sure if she had to but she did it out of habit. Cora held up a lantern that glowed brightly within the dark hallway ahead of them. Large torches hung up high on the wall not providing very much light. Emma noticed that there was no guard with Cora. She wondered why that was. Was it that Cora trusted Emma now or was it to do with her daughter? Emma was unsure.

She did know for sure that every place that Emma had seen was either completely dark or low light and in almost every room the curtains were nailed to the wall. Emma understood that it had to do with Princess Regina's condition. Emma thought it was quite peculiar that the girl had to be in total darkness and was only allowed out at night. She wondered what that was like. Lonely she'd wager. That was something that she had in common with the Princess. Loneliness.

She didn't understand however how the girl lived completely on blood. It was strange. She'd admit but there are so many illnesses out there that she hadn't heard of. What this girl had must have been rare. Emma still didn't know how she felt about the Princess drinking her blood. She felt somewhat self-conscious. What if the Princess' bite did hurt? What if the girl didn't like her blood? What is a 'Hormines Nocturni'? Should she be afraid? Is her illness contagious? The Queen wouldn't risk her daughter getting anyone ill so probably not. Emma did feel like she was in on a huge secret though. She was going to see the girl that no one has seen since her christening when she was an infant. She didn't know whether to be nervous or to be flattered.

"Don't think too much, she can feel nervousness or fear." Cora's voice echoed throughout the hallway. They were completely alone. There wasn't a servant or a guard in sight. They stopped in front of a door and that's when it hit her what Cora had said. She could feel her emotions? That's scary and made Emma feel uncomfortable. "These are her chambers." Cora said. Emma nodded. It was only a few feet from hers. "You come here after the sunsets. Regina doesn't need to feed every night though."

"Alright." Emma said. She felt butterflies in her stomach. This was really happening. Cora looked over her shoulder at Emma. The woman then sighed as if finalizing her decision. She then placed her hand on the knob and slowly turned it. She pushed the heavy door open and stepped inside. Emma followed. They entered a large sitting room.

An old Mahogany bookshelf full of books sat in the corner. The girl must have loved to read. Emma thought as she noticed the stack of books piled up on a royal blue velvet chaise that was covered in pillows and a velvet throw blanket. The room smelled of flowers and it was calming. There were vases placed all around with flowers from daisies to yellow and white roses to sunflowers all around. It made Emma smile. She caught the vanity off to the corner where a white vase with yellow sunflowers sat. She couldn't exactly see much aside from what Cora's lantern touched.

"May I light a candle?" Emma asked as she followed Cora further into the room. Cora looked at her and sighed.

"I'm sorry, Dear but no." She said gently. "Once Regina awakes she cannot deal with any light that is brighter than the moon for at least thirty minutes." Emma nodded. That made sense.

"Alright." She said with a shrug. "Shall I wait here for her?"

Cora hummed with a nod. She handed Emma the lantern then stepped away from her. She walked across the dark room that she obviously knew well. She stopped in front of two large back doors. She waved her hand over the knob and there was a click. Cora then grabbed the knobs and turned them. She pushed forward and they flew open. The sunset came in casting shadows across the floor. Emma moved closer to the small piece of light. She saw that the doors led to a balcony. A nice spring breeze was blowing in. Emma always enjoyed the warmer weather of late spring. There was an almost peaceful beauty to it. A comforting feeling.

"Regina, will be awake soon." Cora explained. "I just want you to understand that there is nothing for you to be afraid of. I will return soon and do not permit Regina to feed without me here."

Emma heard the urgency in the queen's voice. This was serious. Emma nodded. "Alright."

"Good girl." Cora said brightly. She clapped her hands together. "Wonderful. So I will go prepare for Regina about the castle." She said stepping away from balcony. She walked over to Emma and placed her hands on her shoulders. "I would like to thank you again on behalf of myself and the royal family." She looked into Emma's eyes and Emma saw the sincerity there. She nodded.

"Thank you for allowing me to help." She said with a wry smile.

Cora nodded and gave her shoulders a firm squeezed. "You are a good person, Emma Swan. This land needs more people like you." With that Cora patted the girl on her head gently in a gesture that she must do with her own daughter. "I will see you soon."

Emma nodded then Cora took the lantern from her hands and stepped away. With a dip of her head she swept out of the room closing the door behind her. Emma turned back to the doors just as they clicked shut. She frowned and looked around the dark room. It was eerie all alone in the silence and darkness. But Emma wasn't easily spooked. Being an orphan she had to learn to comfort herself at a young age. As a result very few things frightened her anymore. So at this point Emma was just trying to figure out how she was going to entertain herself until the Princess awoke. She glanced at the bookshelf. She was curious to see what the other young girl was interested in but there was not enough light in the room. The light from the setting sun was just enough to make sure that Emma could move around from place to place. She sighed and crossed the room in her flat black shoes and stepped out onto the balcony.

The evening breeze greeted her, blowing her hair around her face. She pushed the hair away and behind her ear. She admired the view in front of her. The sun disappearing behind the hillside and the colors fading to a dark blue. She sighed as she crossed the large balcony. She leaned her elbows against the golden railing and stared out into the forest.

The sound of the animals settling in for the evening gave Emma a chance to think about how she had gotten there. She always wondered what it would be like to finally get out of that orphanage and now here she was. It wasn't what she expected and she certainly didn't expect to end up in a castle. Not too bad though. She thought with a nod.

She was still unsure of her job and what exactly she was supposed to do but she was sure she would figure it out in a while when the Princess wakes up so she just waited.

Emma kept her eyes on the hills. There wasn't much else left for her to do. She stayed there until the sun finally turned in for the evening leaving the sky in darkness and was replaced by the moon to light up the night sky. It was so beautiful. She found herself so lost in it that she barely heard the bedroom doors creak open. She turned around then just in time to see someone emerge from the Princess' bedroom. Emma felt sudden excitement. She was eager to see the girl. She smoothed down the front of her dress and headed back inside of the room. That was when the figure emerged from the shadows. Emma caught a glimpse of her in the moonlight. She was in a white dress. It was simple but beautiful. It was a powerful contrast from the dark room and the young woman's dark hair. That Emma noted appeared to be soft as silk and it flowed down the girls back in gentle waves.

She continued across the room. She didn't even look over at Emma or she didn't notice her.

"Hi." Emma said happily to get her attention. The girl stopped in her tracks and her head turned slowly towards her. Even in the moonlight alone she could see the girl's alluring eyes. They were a rich chocolate color and they were mesmerizing. They were gorgeous just like the rest of the girl's perfect face. She had porcelain like skin. Emma was impressed. She didn't know what she expected but she certainly did not expect that. Her eyes wandered the girl for a moment. Even though she was the same age as her, Regina appeared to be more developed than her and was already getting her curves and Emma really liked that. She stepped closer but the Princess stepped back. Emma stopped with a frown. She must have surprised her. "Sorry. I did not mean to startle you. I'm Emma." She took another step forward for Regina to take two back. "Don't be scared." She pleaded quietly. She really wanted to be Regina's friend.

Regina shook her head. Her expression was pained. "I'm not a afraid." She said softly. "But you should be."

At that she stormed across the room and out of the door. Emma watched her go with a frown. What did that mean? Was that a threat? She ran her fingers through her hair as the door slammed. Emma blew out a breath.

To talk about antisocial.

Regina stepped out into the hallway and shook her head. She was so confused. She didn't know what to think. She awoke to find a girl in her chambers. A strange girl that she had never seen before. A living breathing girl with warm sweet blood in her veins. She sighed. She couldn't deal with this right now. She hadn't eaten in a long time and she couldn't be in the same room with a human. She didn't understand how her mother could allow that poor girl to endanger herself. She knows what Regina is capable of. Regina nibbled her lip as she headed down the dark hallway in search of her mother. Many thoughts were running through her mind but her thoughts came to a screeching halt when she put all of the pieces together.

Her mother hired that girl to feed Regina. She didn't have to feel her emotions to know that. Regina understood that her mother would do anything for her. Regina remembered the time that her mother had offered her her own blood so that Regina wouldn't go hungry. Regina couldn't bring herself to feed from her mother simply because of the blood relation. Her mother's blood smelled revolting and to Regina it was disgusting. But that proved to Regina just how much her mother loved her. She appreciated that and if Regina could feel love she would love her back.

Regina could never feel love though. She didn't know if it was because of her illness but she never felt much of anything.

She knew what her mother was doing but Regina could not in good conscious drink from that poor girl. She still felt the guilt she felt when she killed that servant girl a few weeks ago. Regina had never felt ravenous until she awoke and found the young woman in her chambers setting down a basin and cloth for her to bathe with. She could still hear her agonizing screams. She could still feel her body go limp in her arms and she could still see her lifeless eyes.

That was when Regina realized that she was a monster and began isolating herself. It was just safer that way.

She couldn't subject this other girl to the dangers that being near her would bring. She just couldn't.

She went to turn a corner and collided with someone. Thinking it was a servant she quickly righted herself and looked up to apologize but the words died on her tongue when she saw who it was. Her mother was looking down at her with a small smile and adoration in her eyes. Regina never understood how her mother could adore her so after she's seen what she was capable of.

"Good evening, Mother." Regina said with a small curtsey. The Queen nodded.

"Good evening, My Dear." She said as she patted her daughter on the head.

"Who is that girl in my chambers?" Regina asked softly.

"That is Emma Swan." Cora explained. Regina nodded, absorbing the information.

"What is she doing here?" Regina asked. "Is she another princess?"

Cora chuckled. "Oh no, Dear. Nothing like that."

"Then what?" Regina asked.

"I hired her." Cora replied simply. Regina was still confused.

"For?"

Cora sighed deeply. "You need to eat, Regina." She explained. "You are getting weaker and you look ill. You also need companions your own age. Your father and I love you but I would rather you spend some time with someone like Emma as well."

Regina's mouth fell open and her eyes widened. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. She snapped her mouth shut and narrowed her eyes at her mother. "You hired a meal and a friend?" She asked bitterly. "I am so pathetic." She sighed and placed a hand to her cold forehead.

Cora looked at her with furrowed brows. "What? Regina, why would you say that?"

"Lets face it, Mother." Regina sighed. "You had to hire someone to befriend me. Also to feed me. She didn't choose me."

"That's where you're wrong," Cora said with a smile. "After learning of your affliction, young Emma Swan agreed to help you. She is doing it because she wants to."

"So she's doing it out of pity." Regina nodded. "Very nice."

"No," Cora sighed. "She's doing it because she cares. It's more sympathy than anything." She stared at Regina for a moment. "Give her a chance. You are so sick now. You need sustenance and Emma is more than happy to help."

Regina tilted her head and stared up at her mother for a moment longer. "What if I hurt her?" She whispered. Cora smiled.

"You won't. I'll help."

Regina nodded. If anyone could help, it was her mother. Her mother had been reading up on Regina's condition and had taught her of her findings. Regina was beginning to understand herself better and Cora was almost an expert on Regina's kind. "Very well." She relented. She was indeed very hungry. She didn't know how much longer she could go and if Emma was willing...

She nibbled her lip as she hesitated but her mother reached out and took her hand. The woman turned her around and began leading her back down the hallway. As they walked the dimly lit corridor all that Regina could hear was the tap of their shoes and her thoughts racing through her mind. She had only fed one time. What if everything went wrong and she hurt Emma? Cora gave her hand a squeeze as they arrived back to her chambers. Cora patted the back of Regina's hand with her free one as they stopped outside her bedroom door.

"Everything is going to be okay." The Queen whispered. "Just trust me."

Regina nodded because she did trust her mother. Cora smiled then pushed the bedroom door open. They found Emma sitting on the chaise under the glow of the moon, fiddling with her fingers. The girl looked up and her face looked almost sad.

"I didn't mean to startle you." Emma said quietly. Regina frowned and looked at her mother. She didn't know what to say. Cora sighed and flicked her wrist, lighting the candles and bathing the room in a soft golden glow.

Emma and Cora could see better while Regina could see just as well in the darkness.

"You didn't startle her." Cora explained. "Surprised her. That's all but we have spoken and everything is alright now."

Emma nodded then smiled. "That's good." The blonde girl said. She turned to Regina. She stood up and bowed. "Hello Regina," she said still bowed. "I'm Emma Swan. It is lovely to make your acquaintance."

Regina gasped and giggled. "Oh my." She looked over at her mother then back at Emma. She's never had never met anyone like Emma Swan before. "You are quite charming, Emma Swan." Once Emma straightened up with a grin, Regina curtsied. "It is indeed lovely to meet you."

Emma grin grew. "Hi." She said awkwardly then giggled as her cheeks colored a bright red. "Sorry."

"Don't be nervous." Cora said gently. Regina smiled beside her mother. She thought this girl was so charming and she was beginning to trust her already. "So what do you think?" Cora asked.

Regina looked over Emma. The girl's simple green dress that brought out her lovely eyes was endearing. Regina loved the girl's hair and her rosey cheeks were adorable. She also had a lovely smile and she seemed so sweet. Regina tilted her head as she contemplated. She then nodded. "I like her."

Cora smiled then and clapped her hands together. "Very good." She looked at Emma. "Alright so Emma, first things first. Have a seat." She instructed. Emma obediently sat back on the chaise. She looked at the two brunette women on the opposite side of the room. "Come along, Regina." Cora said as she began heading over to Emma. Regina followed quietly.

Regina was still thinking of what would happen if she hurt Emma. She seemed like such a sweet girl and Regina would never forgive herself.

"Have a seat." Cora said. "And stop worrying." She ordered as they stopped at Emma. Regina sighed but did what she was told and took a seat beside Emma. The blonde girl looked over at her and smiled. Regina returned it and despite herself it was real. The first thing that Regina noticed about Emma was her warmth. It was coming off of her in waves and Regina fought the urge to want to move closer. The second thing was her scent. She smelled sweet like the way she remembered cookies tasting right before they made her ill but with Emma there was no fear of illness. Which was nice. She liked Emma already. Not only for her human attributes but those were nice too.

"Now," Cora said drawing the girls' attention. They both looked up at her. Cora nodded in satisfaction. "Alright." She took the seat on the opposite side of Emma. She placed her hand on the girl's knee. "Dear, Regina is going to try to feed." She explained. Emma furrowed her brow and nodded.

"Okay." She said.

"But Mother," Regina began but Cora raised a hand and shushed her harshly.

"You have not eaten in weeks, Regina." Cora said sharply. Regina snapped her mouth shut. That was true. She was starving but she felt that she should have gotten to know Emma a bit better before she started drinking her blood though. She sighed realizing that Cora was not going to see things her way and just nodded.

"Fine." She huffed.

Cora nodded. "Now Emma is more than happy to help." She looked at her. "Arent you, Dear?"

Emma nodded. She turned to Regina. "I want to help so let me, okay?"

Regina nibbled her lip as she stared into Emma's soft green eyes. She saw so much determination and sincerity in them. "Why?"

Emma shrugged. "Why not?"

Regina smiled. It was not much of an answer but Regina accepted it. "Alright."

Cora sighed. "Very well. Now Emma give Regina your hand." She said. Emma reached her hand out and Regina took it into her own. She almost flinched at the contrast of Emma's warm skin against her cold flesh. She must have felt like ice to her but Emma didn't react. She just looked at her and waited.

Regina turned Emma's hand over, palm upright. She looked at her wrist and the greenish bluish veins lining it. She could feel and hear the blood rushing through them. The pounding of Emma's heart beat invaded her head and she felt that primal instinct again. She inhaled and pushed that down. She reminded herself that she would be fed soon.

"Bring your fangs out, Regina." Cora said. Regina opened her mouth and her fangs grew down until they were protruding from her mouth. Emma gasped and leaned in closer to Regina's face.

"Wow." She breathed. The other girl didn't look scared in the least bit. In fact she looked more impressed than anything. Cora chuckled at Emma's reaction.

"Yes, aren't they pretty?" Cora cooed. Emma nodded. Regina's dark eyebrows came together in confusion. How could they think that the part of her that made her into a monster was pretty? She waved it off. She had given up trying to understand humans. "Anyway..." Cora patted Emma's leg and Emma looked over at her. "Right now, I need you to remain calm and no matter what, do not flinch or tense."

Emma nodded. "Alright."

Cora looked at her daughter. "Go on."

Regina nodded and brought Emma's wrist up to her mouth. She looked up at Emma and caught her watching her curiously. She could feel Emma's pulse and it was picking up which only excited Regina. She opened her jaws and sunk her fangs into the soft flesh of Emma's wrist. She heard Emma hiss in pain but she didn't move and her body remained relaxed. When Regina's eyes wandered up to Emma she noticed that her eyes were squeezed shut and she looked to be in pain. Regina wanted to stop but once the first droplets of Emma's warm blood ran into her mouth she couldn't.

"Don't pull." Cora instructed. "Just let it run into your mouth. Take your time."

Regina closed her eyes and drank. She followed her mother's instructions. Drinking slower helped her to taste. Emma tasted of vanilla. Very sweet vanilla. It was a taste she never liked until now. Especially since it won't make her sick. Emma's blood was smooth yet thick but not too thick. It was easy to drink and had a light feel.

Regina was smitten.

She continued to drink, taking more of Emma into her and she could feel her body regaining strength. She felt warm again inside and she was beginning to feel like her old self. Emma's fresh blood filled her veins bringing life into Regina as well. She could feel her stomach getting full and a sense of calm washed over her. It was a comforting feeling and it wasn't scary like the time she had hurt the servant. Emma was completely quiet allowing her to concentrate.

"Regina," Cora said gently. "That is enough."

Regina heard her mother but she couldn't. Not yet.

"Regina, you don't want to drain her." Cora warned. "You are drinking too much. You are weakening her."

Regina felt Emma slump and her hand drop in hers. Her eyes shot open and she immediately began to panic. Emma looked woozy and dizzy. Her lips were parted slightly and her eyes were shut. She swayed a little and Regina gasped. She quickly retracted her fangs. She swiped her tongue across the punctures, sealing the wounds. She removed her mouth from Emma's wrist and her hand fell into Regina's lap. Regina went into a full panic then. She looked up just in time to see Emma fall back against the chaise. She gasped and shot to her feet.

She stared down at the lifeless human. She ran her fingers through her dark hair. The feeling of dread slammed into her again.

"No!" She whispered.

"It's fine, Regina." Cora said gently.

Regina looked at her mother. "What?"

"She's alright, Regina." Cora explained. "She just lost consciousness."

Regina furrowed her dark brows and watched her mother with a frown. She could still feel the warm blood on her mouth. She looked over at Emma and even though the girl was pale and much too still, Regina could still see the weak rise and fall of her chest. She turned her head and listened. There it was, a faint thump of Emma's heart. She let out a sigh of relief and closed her eyes.

"Oh thank goodness." She said with a hand on her chest. "I thought I killed her."

Cora smiled. "You practiced very good self-control." She praised. "Good girl."

Regina raised a brow and placed a hand on her hip. "Excuse me, Mother, but look at her-"

"She lost consciousness because it was her first time. It was overwhelming. She will be okay."

Regina nibbled on her lip and nodded. Perhaps her mother was right. Emma didn't seem like she was suffering in the process. "Alright." She looked down at Emma again. "What happens now?"

Cora looked Regina over. "What happens now, is that you go get cleaned up..." She made a face. Regina looked down and she saw that the front of her white gown was covered in dark red blood. If she had known that she was going to feed she would have chosen a different color. Regina looked back up at her mother and nodded.

"Yes Mother." She said softly.

Cora nodded her head. "Very well." She said in way of dismissal. "Now run along."

Regina remained quiet. She felt bad for what had happened but there wasn't much more she could do for Emma other than allow her to rest. Hopefully she will be feeling better by the next evening and they could talk a bit more. But until then she had to wait for her to recoup.

With a slight dip of her head towards her mother, Regina turned on her heels and headed to her bedroom to bathe for the second time and to change. She walked there quietly and stopped at her room door with her hand on the knob.

"Oh and Regina..." Cora said. Regina looked over her shoulder at her mother. The Queen continued, "Once you are cleaned up come find me. Since you are feeling better I believe that we should pick up on your studies."

"Yes Mother." Regina said softly. She then pushed her door open and stepped into her dark room. She closed the door behind her and leaned up against it.

She sighed again and shut her eyes. With a soft shake of her head, she groaned. This is what her life was like. Feeding off of others to survive like a parasite. She was not looking forward to another second of it and to think she had an eternity ahead of her.

Her mind kept drifting back to Emma. The sweet peasant girl that had so kindly offered herself up to her. Regina thought that there was something so noble about her sacrifice and she found Emma Swan to be quite endearing. She liked her and she hoped that she would be okay so that they could spend more time together.

Now spending time with Emma was something she was looking forward to. To think that it had been so long for Regina since she had looked forward to anything. Emma Swan was already changing things. Regina smiled to herself, another thing that was rare. She would check on Emma during the night but right now she needed to prepare herself. She couldn't keep her mother waiting for too long. Her mother was kind and lovable... well, at least to her but she had her limits. She pushed off of the door and set about getting cleaned up. It shouldn't take long and she would be ready shortly. Then she could get back to her evening. Not like she could focus on anything else but the charming stranger in her chambers and her delicious blood that had save her. She shrugged. She was fine with that.

She didn't mind her thoughts being consumed by Emma Swan. She didn't mind it at all.

Thanks for reading.

If I continue this it would kind of be on the list behind my other stories so I don't know how the updates will go. Also I would have to age them up with time jumps because they are so young. Too young imo.

But yeah, thanks again!