Page 73 of Red Queen

I refuse to be swayed by her cynicism. “They have every place, Catarina. They are the very essence of what makes us real vampires—what sets us apart from creatures like you.”

Her expression hardens as she steps closer, her voice laced with venom. “Do not mistake sentimentality for weakness, Eleanna. It will be your downfall.”

I meet her gaze unflinchingly. “Perhaps. But it will also be my salvation when all else fades into oblivion. And mark my words, Catarina, that day will come sooner than you think.”

As the silence settles between us, the pain from the poison runs through my veins, threatening to pull me under, yet my thoughts cling to Alexandru, to the hope of our reunion.

“If I’m dying, why not let me go?” I ask and cringe at the pleading tone lacing my words.

Catarina’s lips curl into a sneer as she regards me with a mix of contempt and amusement. “Oh, how predictable of you, Eleanna. To cling to false hopes in the face of your impending death. But tell me, what makes you believe Alexandru will wantyou now? You’re dying. He will only bring you heartache as he tortures himself watching you die.”

I grit my teeth against the pain and summon all the strength I have left. “Because in him, I find my strength, Catarina. The friendship we share’s a bond that transcends even the darkest of times.”

She shakes her head mockingly. “Such alliances are so very fleeting. It blinds you to the harsh realities of our world.”

“Hope gives purpose, Catarina. It incites my will to fight against oppressors like you.”

Catarina’s laughter echoes through the chamber once again, chilling me to the core. “You speak of hope and defiance as if they hold weight against power and cunning. You are but a pawn in a war much greater than yourself.”

I refuse to back down. “I may be just one player in your twisted warfare, Catarina, but mark my words—I will not be a pawn for long.”

Her expression darkens as she steps even closer, her voice low and dangerous. “You underestimate the depth of the mighty power that surrounds you, Eleanna. Your foolish bravery will be your undoing.”

A surge of defiance courses through me. “I would rather face my end with dignity and hope in my heart than cower before tyrants like you.”

Catarina narrows her eyes as she considers me for a moment before speaking with a cold finality. “Your defiance is admirable, Eleanna, but ultimately futile. Accept your fate and spare yourself further suffering.”

I draw a ragged breath, each inhale feeling more labored than the last, yet I refuse to let her see me falter. “I will not surrender to you, Catarina. As long as there is breath in my body, I will fight.”

With a dismissive wave, Catarina turns away. “Your resistance is noted, Eleanna. But remember this—there are fates far worse than death for those who dare to defy me.” Catarina leans close, her breath cold on my skin. “Hmmm, I think it’s time we had a little bloody fun. So, shall we?”

“Is torturing helpless prisoners your idea of sport? How droll.”

She chuckles, a dark sound from deep in her throat. “Let’s test that theory, shall we?”

Before I can even prepare myself, Catarina unleashes on me—a vicious symphony of pain conducted with cruel accuracy. Each strike is sharp and biting, sending waves of agonizing torment through my being. My screams are relentless, tearing from my throat as I thrash against the restraints that hold me captive.

But in the midst of this agony, I refuse to give Catarina the satisfaction of seeing me broken. My mind is strong, fighting to maintain control even as my body is ravaged by her torturous techniques.

“Come now, Eleanna, don’t tell me you’re giving up so soon.” The bitch mocks me, misreading my snarls for surrender.

“Never.” I gasp between gritted teeth, every nerve ending on fire.

I cling to the image of Alexandru, letting it ground me in the torment. He would never yield; neither will I.

“Such spirit. It will be delightful to break it.”

“Good luck with that.”

She pauses, tilting her head as if considering my insolence. The cell’s filled with our heavy breaths, the stench of sweat and blood, and the terrifying promise of more torture at her hands. I may be shackled and poisoned, but I am still Eleanna Cordon, Queen of the Sagori, and I will not bow to this bitch.

“Your move,” I whisper.

“Move?” Catarina throws her head back and laughs, an unnerving sound that echoes the depravity of her soul. “My dear, this is no mere game. It’s your undoing.”

She leans in close, her icy breath skittering across my feverish skin. “You see,” she hisses, “I’ve always despised you. You with your pure Sagori bloodline, your throne, and that damned skull and raven crest.” She traces the tattoo on my leg, and I flinch, loathing her touch. “You believe you are born to rule, but I will show them all what a true queen looks like.”

“Power-hungry harpy,” I spit back defiantly. “The throne will never be yours. Not while I live.”

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