Catalina, Queen of the Nightlings 1

Description

Now, I know exactly what you’re thinking, “Not another vampire.” Yes, all the signs are there, but I adamantly refute the title. I am a Nightling. Not any insignificant Nightling though. I am Catalina, Queen of the Nightlings. Still confused? It’s easy to understand why. Fangs, bloodsucking power, and ageless beauty. Yes, I possess all the telltale signs of your classic vamp. Alas, I am not one of those adrenaline-sucking egomaniacs.

So, what exactly is a Nightling, you ask? Over the centuries we have been called many names. Succubus, Lorelei, seductress, mantrap, siren, enchantress, lady of the night, the list goes on and on. Any of those ring a bell? Let me explain.

The realm of bloodsuckers is not as black and white as the world has always thought. To be truthful, besides our choice of chemical needs, we are quite alike. Let me break it down so there is absolutely no confusion.

I am an ancient creature. I was born as I am. Others have been made, but not me. I have fangs that retract, which are capable of extracting the hormone oxytocin from the human bloodstream. My razor-sharp fangs work two ways. First, they extract the hormones I need to survive, and second, they pump back in the blood you will most definitely need. However, I have complete control as to whether I give back the fundamental fluid. I usually do. Usually.

Oxytocin is the hormone that is secreted when the body feels pleasure, arousal, or passion. Enter the succubus. The hormone keeps me strong, fed, and eternally beautiful. On the other hand, vamps extract adrenaline from their victims, which is why they use fear to extract the chemicals they need. And yes, they have the power to return the human blood as well, but they are a grumpier sort of monster.

Death does not come easy to either of us. Light, crosses, and holy water are completely useless. However, garlic does taint the blood, and vamps say it inhibits the manufacturing of adrenaline. I think they just like to whine about anything they can.

As far as I know, death only comes from dismemberment. However, my bones are as strong as steel, and my skin like marble. You really have to piss off one of your own kind to get killed. I generally try to avoid such situations. The phrase, “I’m a lover not a fighter” was originally coined by me.