Page 13 of An Ancient Power's Revenge

Oberyn's brow furrowed, skepticism etched on his face. "A diplomatic mission? What's this about, Alexei?"

Evelyn stepped in, her diplomatic skills attempting to ease the tension. "We're trying to manage a complex situation in Harmony Grove. The supernatural community is facing challenges, and we believe Mark's diplomatic skills can contribute to finding a resolution. He’s going to help us to see if any supernaturals in other places could help us with our issues.”

The Beta regarded us with a lingering suspicion, but after a moment, he reluctantly nodded. "Fine. But there's something you need to know.”

My throat felt dry when he said those words.

What did he know?

Did he somehow find out that we're lying?

“What's that, Beta Oberyn?” Evelyn said with a sweet smile on her face.

If it wasn't for the fact that I was aware of the alpha's death, I wouldn't think she was putting on an act at all.

“It's the Alpha. We haven't seen him since the day of the peace treaty. There's also no sign of the talisman.”

His words sent a ripple of concern through me. "The Alpha and his talisman are missing? I wasn't aware."

Oberyn let out a heavy sigh. “It’s possible that Mark took the talisman with him but it's unlike him to leave without saying a word to anyone.”

“Wow. This is the first I’m hearing of any of this. I didn't know Mark well but you're right, he doesn't seem like the kind of person that would disappear without a word to his pack. The Vampire council and I will do our best to help with the search.”

Oberyn nodded. “Thank you, Alexei.”

“It's no problem. For now, we need your cooperation in maintaining stability among the pack."

The door to the room we were in swung open and Gamma Simon entered.

"Simon," Oberyn greeted the gamma as he joined our gathering. "We have company. The Mayor and Sheriff."

Simon's eyes darted between us, his stance alert. “Have you told them?” he asks, his gaze resting on Oberyn. The beta nodded, and a small sigh left Simon's lips.

“Alright. But what about the talisman? Did you tell them that it's also missing, Oberyn?”

I fixed my gaze on Simon. “Oberyn already mentioned it. We’ll try to find it and also locate Mark's whereabouts. In the meantime, I think it would be a good idea for you and Oberyn tokeep a watchful eye on the pack and let us know if there are any disturbances. We need to ensure their safety in Mark's absence."

Oberyn's reluctance lingered, but he nodded in acknowledgment. "We'll do what's necessary for the pack."

On our drive back to Harmony Grove, the car was filled with thoughtful silence. Evelyn's gaze occasionally met mine, a shared understanding lingering between us. The missing talisman, the enigma of Mark's departure, and the looming uncertainty cast a shadow over our journey.

As the town lights came into view, I broke the silence that enveloped us. "Evelyn, there's something off about the whole situation. The missing talisman, Mark's sudden death. It all seems very fishy to me. What do you think?”

Evelyn nodded, her eyes reflecting a mix of concern and curiosity. "I agree, Alexei. It's very weird. Why would the culprit kill Mark and steal the talisman? That's what I’ve been asking myself since we left the pack house. Frankly, at this point, my head is starting to hurt thinking about it.”

We need to find out who did this and we need to find them fast. It's only a matter of time before the rest of them start to ask questions.

Chapter 8 - The Missing Talisman

Evelyn

As we entered the dimly lit living room, the air in the Luminara coven headquarters was thick with the scent of herbs and magic. The first thing we saw was a group of powerful witches huddled around an intricately carved wooden table adorned with mystical symbols—the soft glow of candles cast dancing shadows on their faces.

I led Alexei through the room, his eyes scanning the unfamiliar surroundings.

“Evelyn, what exactly are we doing here? I keep asking but you won't give me a response.” he asked, a note of skepticism in his voice.

I let out a small sigh. “Okay, the reason why I didn’t say anything earlier is because I know you won’t approve but I think we have a shot at solving this case with the witches on our side.

---