ght of the candelabras that lined the chamber walls. His calm, almost stoic demeanor was unshaken, though his mind churned beneath the surface. His black eyes, deep and in

ht, forming intricate patterns of fangs and crescent moons. A heavy chain of obsidian and rubi

ooled behind him, giving him the appearance of a shadow come to life. His presence was

of the maid said, steppin

e. His movements were deliberate, almost feline, as he exited

es. Crimson banners hung from the walls, their edges embroidered with golden runes that glowed faintly in the dim light. The floor

iking figure, his black hair framing a sharp, angular face that bore the weight of centuries. His piercing crimson eyes reg

asked as he saw Kael

is back. "A bit, yeah. I don't see the point of all this. I'm not

el. This isn't just about the crown. This is about our customs, our traditions. You've spent your life away from the throne, a part

ing momentarily. "I never as

the strength of our people. The blood clans must have a leader they trust, a figure they reve

people were going to be there so if he messed anything up, it wouldn't look good on him. Idri

d flames that flickered in sconces carved into the walls. Rows upon rows of vampires filled the space, the

ped forward, his voice cutting through the silence like a blade. "My people, tonight we honor

s of murmurs, their voices a m

e understands our laws, our sacrifices, and our duty to protect the blood clans. As crown prince, he wi

said, his voice solemn, "do you swear to serve the blood clan with honor, to uphold t

dy, though his heart

lack steel inlaid with rubies-and placed it on K

d. Their cheers echoed through the cavern, a deafening

ol, and the faint rustle of leaves provided the only sound. He needed space

ing people to do his bidding but now that it seemed within his grasp, he wasn't sure if he wanted it anymo

pening as he sniffed the air. The scent of wild wolves was unmistakable, their musk th

couldn't quite place. It stirred a hunger deep within him, sharpe

scent. He wove through the trees effortlessly, his movements si

he sa

wide, frightened eyes, and delicate features. Her beauty was undeniable, he

was, had awakened som

mind, the warmth of it spilling over his tongue. He was just about to get on the scene a

rewo

echoed in his mind: Never confront a werewolf without yo

. The werewolf fought off the wolves and helped the girl up. Kael

ctuary, Kael stopped, knowing tha

ched the werewolf lead the girl into the sanctuary, his voic