You will replace him

“Gosh, don't be so dramatic.” I narrow my eyes at him, “if you have nothing to do, just—”

The werewolf in front of us coughed to get our attention.

And Just like that, I shut up. It wasn't because I was afraid of him. I was only merely giving the respect I think he deserves.

The werewolf only cast me a glance before he took out two wrapped papers.

Everywhere grew hushed as they tried to listen to the call of names.

“Fapon and Grog!”

Wait!

Grog?

Grog danced happily in front of me while I stared dumbstruck.

“I got chosen, Paltmin! I'm going to the palace! Oh, my gosh. I'm so ecstatic!”

I didn't react as I watched him climb the raised dais.

My heart was heavy as I did so. It felt as if they placed a huge rock on them.

“Where is—”

A shout from the rear of the line alerted us to whatever was happening back there.

It momentarily took my mind away from thoughts of Grog, leaving me in this place.

“What's wrong?” The werewolf called out to them.

“Fapon has fainted!” someone announced from the rear. “He was shocked to hear his name.”

“Oh,” the werewolf pinched the bridge of his nose. “Just take him home.” He waved at the man who was holding on to the said Fapon.

“But sir, this has been his dream ever since he was little. Please give him another chance!” The male, who was clutching the fainted Fapon's head, shouted.

“Just take him home. The palace doesn't need guards who faint at the slightest provocative. Just take him home.” The man waved at them as he turned to the box.

“It's his lifelong dream, mister. Why will you decide to send him back only because he passed out?” I yelled to the werewolf, much to the shock of those around.

However, that didn't deter me at all. If no one wants to stand up for him, that doesn't mean I'm going to be like everyone.

I'm not one to stand up for such injustice.

“Who wouldn't be thrilled to be chosen? Well, that's when you exclude me, of course.

However, I don't think what you did solves this.

He did nothing wrong—”

“As a vampire, young man. What he did wasn't acceptable. Fairies can faint, but not the bloodsuckers.

That's not only a symbol of vulnerability, but it's a signal of more troubles to come.

Do you think the Kingdom needs men like him to defend them?”

“Have you thought about the reason he passed out?

What if he blacked out of excitement and not weakness?”

“Exactly! He lost consciousness because of his excitement.

Does that mean he's going to faint every time he's excited? Is that how he's going to guard the king of his specie?”

“That's—”

“Young vampire, what's your name?” The man suddenly asked.

“Paltmin, but that's not—”

“Paltmin, you will replace the vampire who just fainted. This way, you will go there and live the life he wanted.”

“What nonsense are you saying?” I scoffed at him.

My words caused the people around me to gasp, but I couldn't care less about it.

I just don't care if the crowds shout, scream or boo, I just don't care a shit.

“As I said, I'm not going there. You can choose one wannabe here, but just give my brother back to me!” I pointed at Grog, who was looking at me as if this were the first time he actually saw me.

Well, I guess this was the first time he actually saw me in this mood. I'm not always one to say my mind all the time.

“This is the type of person this kingdom needs. You are going with us!”

“And I said I'm not! You will not force me to do stuffs I would rather not do! In fact, I'm leaving here! Continue your arguments anyhow you wish. I'm out of here!”

I turned to leave.

However, the moment I turned, I saw my mother (that's Grog's Mom) standing in front of me.

“Mother?” I was shocked to see her.

“Why don't you wish to go, son?”

“I don't want to go to the palace, mom. I prefer to stay in the village with you. Don't you think the house will be too isolated without me?” I smiled to appease her.

“Do you want your brother to be isolated over here, Paltmin?” She placed her palms on my cheeks, “don't worry about me. Go with your brother.”

“But mom, I don't want to go! I wish to stay in the village. The palace isn't for people like me!”

“And who are the individuals you consider they are meant for?” She furrowed her brows at me. “It's an honour, son. Not only for you and your brother, but for the family.

Don't you wish to bring honour to your family?

Don't you realize your mom will want you to go there?”

“Mom—”

I hate it whenever she includes my dead mother when trying to coarse me to do something I wouldn't rather do.

Although she doesn't do it more often, most times, I believe she knows I can't say no should she add mom to it.

“Just go, son. You will only stay there for two years before you return. It's not too long. Two years is just like a day.” She kissed me on the cheeks, “go ahead, son. Mother loves you.

Take care of your brother, and make sure he does nothing funny there.” She patted my hair. “I will pray for your safety.”

And that, my dear loves, was how I found myself in the large freight, going towards a castle I detested more than life itself.

In the carriage, we were ten. Five of each species were sitting on one bench, while the others sat facing us.

Grog, who was facing me, tried to make small conversations, but I was in no mood to entertain him.

At least, not until I figure out a way to leave.