I resist the urge to scoff. Prophecies are the stuff of myths, not to be taken seriously. “I don’t believe I have. Please. Enlighten me.”
He chuckles again, the sound grating on my nerves. “For years, we’ve adhered to the laws, keeping to ourselves under the cover of darkness. But the prophecy foretells a time when the supernatural will rule over humans. Our leader will emerge. We’re just preparing for that glorious day.”
I lean forward, my gaze piercing. “Who is this supposed leader?”
Mr. Black laughs heartily. “Ah, Gabriel, even you should know. It’s been foretold for centuries. We do not know a name, but this person will be the one to unite our kind and lead us to supremacy.”
I shake my head, dismissing the notion. “I don’t believe in prophecies. They’re just stories.”
He leans in, his eyes locking onto mine. “Whether you believe or not, Gabriel, the prophecy has garnered believers. Creatures of the night, eagerly awaiting the reign of our leader.”
My blood runs cold at the implications. The supernatural world has existed harmoniously with humans because of a treaty forged long ago. All supernatural beings have been abiding by the laws set to maintain the peace between worlds while keeping most humans in the dark about their existence. A prophecy suggesting a shift in power threatens that delicate balance.
“Who else knows about this prophecy?” I press.
Mr. Black smirks, his arrogance undeterred. “Everyone, my friend. The word has spread. We supernaturals are ready for our leader.”
Doubt creeps in, not about the prophecy itself but about the danger of vast numbers of creatures fervently believing in it. Fueled by the anticipation of a prophesied leader, the implications of a united front among the supernatural community send a chill down my spine.
“I don’t care about your prophecies,” I declare, outwardly maintaining my resolve. “I won’t tolerate the harm of humans. The balance must be maintained.”
Mr. Black leans back, his amusement fading into a more serious demeanor. “Gabriel, times are changing. We cannot be confined forever. The prophecy has become a beacon of hope for those of us lurking in the shadows.”
I rise from my chair, my duty as a protector pressing on me. “Hope or not, I won’t let you harm humans in the process. The treaties stand. You need to let the humans go.”
“I don’t think so. Treaties are only as good as those who forged them centuries ago. This is a new time, and treaties can be broken.”
Fuck!
This is worse than any of us could have anticipated. I need to talk to the council.
Chapter 10
Jade
Thursday morning, I decide to ask for Friday off to pick up Alyssa from the hospital. Alyssa is finally being discharged, and I want to be there for her. Surprisingly, my supervisor agrees, and the prospect of having a long weekend ahead lifts my spirits.
As I leave my office, my gaze catches Gabriel down the hall in the distance. I try to approach him, but he turns and walks away, acting like he didn’t see me. The pang of disappointment hits me—it’s clear he’s avoiding me. I shake off the feeling and focus on the upcoming day with Alyssa.
Friday arrives, and I am at the hospital, ready to pick up Alyssa. The sterile scent of antiseptic hangs in the air as I navigate the corridors on my way to her room.
Alyssa sits on the edge of the hospital bed, looking relieved but confused. The doctor explains the discharge process discussing medications and follow-up appointments. Alyssa nods, but her gaze often drifts into the distance, lost in the fog of forgotten memories.
“I’ll need a few moments to gather your paperwork,” the doctor says, leaving Alyssa and me alone in the room.
As we wait, the weight of recent events settles around us like a shroud. I can feel the unspoken questions lingering on Alyssa’s lips, the confusion etched in the furrow of her brow.
“The attack... I can’t remember anything,” she confesses, her voice barely above a whisper.
I place a comforting hand on her shoulder. “It’s okay, Alyssa. The important thing is that you’re safe now.”
The door creaks open just then, and a nurse enters the room. She has a warm, reassuring smile. “Hello, Alyssa. I’m Jemma, the nurse who’s been looking after you.”
Alyssa returns the smile, gratitude flickering in her eyes. “Thank you for taking care of me, Jemma.”
Jemma nods. “It’s my pleasure. If you have any questions or need assistance during your recovery, don’t hesitate to ask.”
The doctor returns with Alyssa’s paperwork, and the discharge process ensues. As we leave the hospital room, the hallway lights cast long shadows, a visual metaphor for the lingering uncertainties accompanying us.