Back Home

It felt so good to get some sleep, after everything that happened, I passed out in the back of the carriage. I am not sure how I got in my bed but my body aches all over. I guess that's the consequence of almost dying. I pick up the amulet sitting on my neck and take a good look at it. It’s an antique silver locket that hangs gracefully on a delicate chain. The locket is ornately engraved with ancient runes and vampire sigils, hinting at its supernatural origins. I pop it open to reveal it holds a crimson stone that seems to pulse with an inner light, reminiscent of a beating heart. I have so many questions about it, where did my father get it from? Why did he give it to me, what is it for?

“Ahh...” I sighed out loud, I wish there was some ways I could find some answers. Damon and Deaken seem to know something so maybe I should ask them first. I guess I could always see if I can find something mentioned in one of the books in the library.

“Is everything okay my Queen?” A strange voice spoke in the quite space of my bedroom. The only other person that is able to come and go is May and that is not May.

I shot up out of bed screaming, “Deaken... Damon...” In the corner of my room sat a group of vampires, I could see what they were by their red eyes and pale features. “Who are you! And why are you in my room?”

A look of hurt crossed the face of the man in the front. He bowed slightly as the rest are kneeling behind him. “We are your faithful servant's my Queen, anything you wish for just ask.” He spoke softly as a hole opened in the wall on the left side of the bed.

Deaken was the first to show up, no surprise there. “Everything okay Lime?”

I smiled at the nickname, “Yeah. Sorry to worry you, I was a little disoriented this morning. Yesterday took a toll on me it would seem.”

He nodded in understanding while looking at the people in the corner. “We tried to send them away, but they refused.” He pointed to the one that has been speaking to me, “he insisted they would only take orders from you.” He let out a little laugh, “You should have seen the look on lord Syndril’s face when they refused. I thought he was going to lose it.” He laughed some more making me smile along with him.

“Deaken, where dose that door lead?” I said, pointing to the hole in the wall that wasn’t a door but a magical opening.

He turned to look at it, “oh that is connected to my room so if something happens, I can get to you quickly.”

That makes sense but why didn’t he tell me about it sooner. “Where is Damon?” I couldn't help but notice the absence of my husband even after I called for him.

“He’s dealing with his brother Lucius.” He looked me over from head to toe, “after his attack on you last night no one has seen him.”

The words he said to me still swim in my memories sending a shiver down my spine. He left me on the floor last night believing I was dead and that was exactly what he wanted. “Do you think he knows I am alive?”

Deaken shook his head, “there is no way to know for sure, but I think that’s why the lord has been working on it all night. He has a few spies in his brother’s land he is following up with.”

I felt a ping of sadness at his absents but I understood why he wasn’t here. “Thank you, Deaken. For everything.”

He leaned in, a teasing glint in his eye. “Caroline,” he whispered, his voice a playful caress, “there isn't a star in the sky I wouldn't pluck for you." He gave me a peck on the cheek, “Get some rest. We go back to training tomorrow.”

I yawned agreeing to rest because I clearly needed it. I looked at the group in the corner. “What are your names?”

The one in the front spoke first, “my name is Thorn my Queen.” His voice soft as silk and soothing.

“Thorn, you will act as my secdon in comand for the time being.” He nodded enthusiastically and bowed to me once more. The role seems to be perfect for him since he already seems to oversee the rest of the group. Thorn is the embodiment of the enigmatic allure that vampires are often associated with. His short, jet-black hair is always impeccably styled, giving him a modern edge. His skin, a pale olive, carries the faintest trace of his Mediterranean heritage.

The girl on his right spoke next, “I am Sera.” Her midnight black hair that cascades in waves over her shoulders, has a presence that is both commanding and elusive.

And the girl on his left added, “and I am Evelara.” Evelara’s appearance is a stark contrast to the dark allure of Sera. She boasts long, golden locks that shimmer like the sun’s last rays at dusk. Her skin is porcelain, almost translucent, with a faint glow that seems to emanate from within.

I enjoyed having more women around for once, “can you do me a favor and gather some information for me?” They both nodded, “I need to know more about the amulet I am wearing. Bring me anything you think might be related to it.”

Thorn's nod was swift, his eyes already scanning the room for resources. "Consider it done, my Queen. We'll comb through every tome and scroll in the lair's library."

Sera stepped forward, her violet eyes reflecting a fierce determination. "We'll start with the ancient archives. There are legends of amulets with powers that rival the gods themselves."

Evelara's voice chimed in, light yet resolute. "And I'll seek out the elders. Their memories are long, and they whisper of artifacts lost to time."

I watched them spring into action, a trio of shadows moving with purpose. It was comforting to have such capable individuals at my side. "Thank you," I called after them, feeling the weight of the amulet against my chest. It was a constant reminder of the power I now wielded and the mysteries I had yet to unravel.

As they disappeared, I turned to find Deaken watching me, an amused smile playing on his lips. "What?" I asked, self-conscious under his gaze.

He shrugged, the picture of nonchalance. "Just admiring how naturally command suits you. It's like you were born to rule the night."

I rolled my eyes, but his words warmed me more than I cared to admit. "Well, I had a good teacher," I teased, nudging him with my shoulder.

Deaken caught my arm, his touch sending a jolt of electricity through me. "Then perhaps there's more I can teach you," he said, his voice dropping to a husky whisper.

The air between us crackled with tension, and for a moment, I forgot about the amulet, the lair, and the looming threats. There was just Deaken, with his mischievous eyes and the promise of secrets yet to be shared.