Kara perched on the edge of the balcony in Damien’s west wing, her wings unfurling slightly as the evening breeze tangled with her dark hair. Below her, the Vampire Kingdom buzzed with anticipation. Lanterns lit the streets with an eerie red glow, casting long shadows that twisted and danced like specters. Tonight marked the first meeting of the Council of Shadows, a rare assembly of leaders from the vampire court and allied factions.
Damien had been unusually quiet that day. Kara had noticed his furrowed brow and the way his jaw clenched when he thought no one was looking. It was unlike him to betray any sign of weakness, but something about this gathering had him on edge. Kara couldn’t help but feel that the storm brewing outside mirrored the chaos within her heart.
“Are you ready for
