Page 134 of The Vampire's Bride

“Then, let us hope it was not the Mages who tampered with the Veil,” Damar says grimly.

Whether or not this prophecy is true, I do not want Juliet involved in any of this. I am anxious to return to her. To know she is safe.

No matter what comes, I will do whatever I must to protect my mate. I will defy fate, the sun, and even the gods themselves. I have lost everything before, and I will not lose again. No one will take Juliet from me.

CHAPTER 56

JULIET

Nightshade appears so different during the daytime, it feels as if we’re in an entirely different city. Humans, Fae, Elves, Orcs, and even a few Wolf-Shifters travel along the cobblestone streets and walkways.

Despite the absence of any Vampires, Reyla and I keep our hoods over our heads to conceal our faces. I’m not sure anyone would recognize us anyway, but I’d prefer not to draw any unwanted attention. If anyone is looking for me, I’d rather not be an easy target.

When we reach the outskirts of the city, we cross over the bridge and head straight for the Dark Gate. Despite the sunlight, it’s easy to make out the glowing purple runes that decorate the obsidian stone arch.

Dismounting from my horse, I place my palm against the stone, surprised at how warm it is against my skin. Purple light arcs like lightning from my hand and ripples around the arch. The swirling black smoke in the center expands in a ripplingpool of light before a familiar snowy landscape becomes visible on the other side.

When we emerge through the other side, a blast of cold air greets us. Despite the chill, this place is a welcome sight. We are so close to home, less than a day’s ride from the castle.

Dark clouds drift across the sky and dappled sunlight filters through the trees as we follow along the main road that cuts through the dense forest.

“Do you think anyone will come after us?” I ask.

“I hope not,” Reyla replies. She lifts her gaze to the sunlit sky. “If they do, it will be a Day Guardian. No Vampire would risk traveling during the day, even under a covered carriage.”

Her words are not entirely reassuring, but I force myself to push aside my fear as we continue on. I keep telling myself it will do me no good to worry. The best I can do is remain alert to our surroundings.

A rumbling growl sounds behind us and I swivel in my saddle. My heart stops when I see a hulking green Orc covered in armor, riding a Dire Wolf, twice the size of a horse. They are at least thirty paces behind us, but it’s still much too close for my comfort.

Reyla’s face pales.

“Don’t worry,” the Orc bellows. “I’ll make sure to keep my wolf a healthy distance behind you.” He chuckles. “I wouldn’t want him to try to eat your horse.”

Unsure how to respond, I dart a glance at Reyla. “Was that a promise or a threat?” I mutter under my breath.

She shakes her head, her eyes wide with fear.

I’ve heard the Orcs have little love for Vampires, but I cannot help but ask, “Do you think he’s a Day Guardian?”

“It wasn’t a threat,” the Orc calls out. “And I’d rather die than serve one of those fanged bastards as their Day Guardian.” He spits on the ground in disgust. “I can assure you of that.”

“Apparently, Orcs have good hearing,” I whisper.

“Aye,” he bellows. “That we do, lass.”

“Forgive me,” I tell him. “I apologize for my rudeness. I’ve never—”

“Met an Orc?” he finishes my question. Curling his massive arms, he flashes a grin and flexes his biceps. “My name is Thulrak. If you like what you see, I’m in search of a bride.”

My jaw drops, and he breaks out in a fit of hearty laughter.

“I’m only jesting with you,” he says. “Despite what you’ve heard, my kind are not prone to preying upon innocent people. Don’t mind me. I’ll just be back here watching for Shadowbeasts and snowcats.” He grins, flashing his lower tusks. “And if we see any, my wolf and I will take the first crack at them.” He pats his Dire Wolf’s neck. “Won’t we, Grynar?”

“Thank you?” I wince as the words come out sounding like a question instead of a statement. But he nods just the same.

I exchange a glance with Reyla, praying this Orc is telling the truth, and that he’s not a threat. If he is, I doubt our horses could outrun his wolf.

By the time we finally reach our destination, I’m completely on edge. It’s not easy to relax with an Orc and a Dire Wolf following behind us. Then again, if he’d wanted to attack, he surely would have by now. So, that’s reassuring.

---