Page 9 of Blood Bound

My stomach drops. I can feel the doubt radiating from her, and it makes my palms sweat. I push my glasses up my nose yet again. “I have shared what I know, Lady Moonshadow,” I say firmly. At least everything that feels relevant. “If there’s more to this story, I’m not aware of it.”

Astra’s eyes narrow. “And yet, you formed a connection with this vampire? One that amplified your magic, you say. That’s…unusual, to say the least.”

I fight down a wave of panic. She’s probing, and I know what she’s implying. Exactly what kind of connection did we have? I really don’t want to go there. I need to steer this conversation away from dangerous waters.

“My only concern was finding Mia,” I insist, my voice tight. “Yes, my magic grew stronger, but I was using that strength to try to locate my sister. That’s all that matters here.”

Astra tilts her head, clearly unconvinced. “And the vampire’s death? Was that also in service of finding your sister?”

“What do you mean?” My brow furrows.

Astra is silent for a moment, considering me. “Your sister was taken. You, of all people, would have reason to bear a grudge. Who could blame you for luring him in and—”

“What?” I blurt. “Are you saying that I planned this?” It’s unthinkable.

“Has revenge never occurred to you before, child?” Astra is unblinking.

“I…I…” My mouth opens and closes because I know I’ve said these very words. That I wanted the vampires to pay. But to actually do it? “I would never,” I say weakly.

There’s a taut silence in the room, and then the High Priestess speaks again, “We cannot ignore the gravity of Rowan’s experience, nor can we dismiss the information she has shared.” Seraphina pauses, her gaze sweeping the room. “We will conduct a thorough investigation into Mia’s disappearance and Darick Drake’s involvement. No stone will be left unturned.”

“It’s all well and good worrying about what happened to Mia Blackburn. But what about the other issues?” Morgan interjects.

“Other issues?” Gran turns to him, her eyes like flint.

“What if this vampire overheard details of our defenses while he was involved in this…psychic connection with your granddaughter?” he says. “Our wards, our secrets… He may be dead now, but who’s to say he didn’t overhear something and tell others?”

My stomach twists. I’ve worried about it, too, those moments when Darick’s presence in my mind felt invasive.

“I- I did worry about that,” I admit. The room falls silent, hanging on my words. “There were times when I wondered if he could hear more than just my thoughts. But he assured me that he heard nothing.” God, that sounds so weak. “And as my magic strengthened, I was able to block him out.”

A stony silence follows his words. Who could blame them if they’re not convinced? I keep my chin high and wait for the onslaught.

Gran stands again. “I think we may be missing something bigger. We must consider the possibility that Rowan’s connection to Darick Drake is more than just a random occurrence.” She pauses as if considering her next words. She goes on, “There are ancient prophecies that speak of a bridge between our worlds. A connection that could change everything.”

There’s a collective murmur from the others. I feel my eyes widen in shock. This is the first I’m hearing of any prophecy.

Astra Moonshadow leans forward, her earlier skepticism replaced by intense curiosity. “Evelyn,” she says, her eyes gleaming, “are you suggesting that Rowan might be…”

She trails off, leaving the implication hanging in the air. I feel like I’m missing something crucial, some piece of information that everyone else seems to understand.

Seraphina raises a hand, silencing the room. “This revelation adds another layer to an already complex situation,” she says, her voice measured. “I propose we arrange a meeting with the Blood Assembly. We must address Darick’s death, Mia’s disappearance, and these larger issues that have come to light.”

The room buzzes with mixed reactions. Some nod in agreement, while others look appalled at the idea of another meeting with vampires.

“We shall put it to a vote,” Seraphina declares. “All in favor of arranging a meeting with the vampire council, raise your hands.”

I watch, my breath caught in my throat, as hands slowly rise. It’s not unanimous, but it’s clear – the majority agrees. The tension is spiraling again, and I can see the divide forming. Some witches nod in approval, while others scowl and mutter under their breath.

As the meeting concludes, I feel drained, like I’ve run a marathon. I’m about to turn and find my family when a voice stops me.

“Your story intrigues me, young Blackwood.”

I spin around to find Astra Moonshadow standing before me.

“I hope, for all our sakes, that you’re prepared for what might come next,” she says, her expression enigmatic.

I swallow hard, unsure how to respond. Before I can formulate a reply, she’s gone, leaving me in a swirl of confusion. I make my way back to my family, who’ve gathered together near the exit. Mom pulls me into a tight hug, and I can feel her trembling.

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