Taste of Vampire: Kingdom of Blood & Ash Book 1 (Free dark fantasy romance audiobook)

Taste of vampire a dystopian fantasy romance Kingdom of blood and Ash written by DS Murphy narrated by Kim Churchill chapter 1 I covered my mouth with my mother's shawl and cut through the poisonous Ash ignoring The Battered warning signs going past the wall is death inhale to to much Ash and it will kill you but this wasn't my first time skirting the laws I headed away from the Purification engines whose Motors filled our town with a constant hum and climbed the oak tree that had grown too close to the perimeter fence ringing our compound as

I shuffled out to the tip of a gnarled Branch the buzz of electricity radiating from the fence made the hair on my arm stand up we didn't have much electricity in all grave but I knew it was dangerous I gripped the rough bark between my fingers wobbling slightly as I blinked away a chunk of Ash that had gotten stuck in my eyelashes it wouldn't harm me in small doses as long as I didn't breathe it in but the ash wasn't the only thing beyond the fence that could kill me my father used used to tell

me stories about the beasts outside the gates rancid breath claws as long as my arm teeth that could pierce the hardest Stone their Beady red eyes the last thing you'd see before they ripped you Open slag paaw we called them his stories terrified me when I was young but it had been years since the last attack maybe the elite hunted them to Extinction or maybe they were just a story to scare the village kids from wandering too far into the dark woods but I wasn't a child anymore and my father was gone besides it was

Festival tonight and I didn't want to be late I lowered myself down from the Branch and dropped into the carefully prepared pile of leaves waiting for me me I nearly broke my ankle the first time I made the journey this time I rolled tucking my bow to the side I brushed myself off and took a deep breath through my Shaw it filtered out the ash while letting in the fresh scent of pine sap knocking an arrow I walked forward silently my bow ready my father taught me how to walk without snapping Twigs when I was

younger younger he said It might save my life someday I never really understood what he meant and he died before I could ask him he left behind a bow he made himself a hunting knife and a few basic traps when I realized my mother planned to sell them I begged her to let me use them instead she gave me a month to learn how to hunt 28 Days Later I came home with my first rabbit since then she's pretty much given me free rain as long as I helped put food on the Table of course

she didn't know how far I really needed to go to get meat these days she thought I stayed within the compound and waited for a really stupid bird or squirrel to wander in that hadn't happened in months I was sick of hearing my little brother complain that he was hungry he was too young to understand rationing or why we could never buy the sweet pastries in the market my mom did what work she could but there weren't exactly a lot of Paying jobs in the compounds at night she soaked her feet in hot water with

herbs and rubbed the back of her neck sometimes I'd catch her staring at the walls and smiling to herself I think she was secretly looking forward to the choosing ceremony not that anybody in our family had ever been chosen but she could hope for my part I was determined to make myself useful in any way that I could And this could be my last festival at home with my family I wanted to make it special Twigs snapped behind me and I Whirled around pulling the tot string of my bow to my ear a buck with

magnificent antlers moved slowly through the trees I'd never killed anything so large before at least it was an easy target I held my breath as it turned its three eyes towards me Radioactive my father would have said whatever that meant meat was meat I Steadied my breath aiming for the front of its body hoping to hit one of the vital organs I was just about to release my arrow when I heard the voices my eyes widened in Surprise and my heart pounded like a drum in my chest there shouldn't be anybody else Beyond the Wall

unless oh [ __ ] I ducked just in time to see a group of Elites wander into the meadow laughing and shoving each other they looked like us mostly But I knew they were faster and stronger than any human and far more dangerous than the creatures in my father's bedtime stories apart from the annual choosing ceremony and a small team of Engineers that came through our village every few months to check the machines I hadn't had much interaction with the elite they all looked young healthy and clean in a way the people of my Village

could never hope to look as if they took a bath Every night and every morning these ones were wearing richer materials and clothing than i' ever seen one of the elite held a finger up to his mouth he ran a thin fingered hand over the long dark hair slicked back over his ears then signaled the others to around to the other side of a small Meadow I was so sure they smelled me my heart nearly stopped I crouched on my toes preparing to run but then one of them hollered and chased the buck into The

clearing my buck the rest of them ran around the animal in circles terrifying the poor Beast they let it Dart around and think it could Escape Into the Woods before appearing just in front of it again they moved so fast my eyes could scarcely keep track of them the one with dark hair straightened his purple velvet jacket and approached the animal keeping his arms out to both sides until he was right in front of it without warning he Grabbed the buck by the antlers and snapped them both off with a firm twist as the animals

stood there there stunned he plunged the antlers into either side of the buck skewering it and sending a spray of blood up over his white shirt and pale face then he smiled licking the blood from the corners of his mouth my stomach turned sour as the other Elites crowded around the animal they raised silver chalises to the still quivering animal Filling their cup CS with warm blood one of them found a vein and latched his teeth around the creature's neck he bit down hard and blood streamed over his lips and Chin I shuddered and took

a step backwards the leader's head snapped up and he looked straight at me with Hungry Eyes before I could even think about running he was at my side a cruel smile played on his lips as he glared down at me very slowly he took an embroidered Handkerchief out of his dark jacket and wiped the deer's blood off his face ready for a new game boys he called he lifted me up in one smooth motion and flung me over his shoulders I pushed and struggled against his body but it was like trying to move a house

his muscles felt like solid Stone his fingers dug into my flesh as he carried me back towards his friends I was considering gouging his eye with my thumb when he dumped me on the ground probably would Have been a stupid move anyway everyone knew the penalty for physically harming an elite what have you found there Nigel one of his friends asked brushing back locks of sandy blonde hair blood spilled from his cup as he gestured towards me staining the ash covered soil she may not be a swift As the deer but I bet she'll taste

much better said the third with Shaggy brown hair and leather pants each of them were gorgeous in their own way but that didn't make them less Terrifying I'd escaped from the compound and wandered unchaperoned Into the Wilderness my heart raced as I thought about all the things they could do to me and how nobody would even find my body run the one called Nigel commanded a cruel grin on his lips His companion spread out in a circle around me see if you can get away from us I can't I protested you're too fast now that's

no way to think he replied His friends laughed as he teased me you should have more faith in yourself a strong young thing like you I'll tell you what we'll stand over at the edge of the trees way over here he moved to show me the place he meant leaving me alone in the center of the clearing if you make it to the other side and touch the trunk of any tree we'll let you go looking behind me I took note of the closest tree it was only 20 ft or so away maybe I could

make it I launched Myself up and forced my legs to push harder and faster than I'd ever moved them before it was no use I only made it halfway before being flung backwards by an incredible Force I landed where I'd started Breathless and groaning in pain you almost had me that time why not try again called Nigel from the other side of the meadow more laughter followed and I realized they were going to kill me there were rules against it of course Elites weren't allowed to feed on Commons not without permission but we were only

protected if we stayed inside the compounds people would assume I ran away and inhaled too much Ash or got eaten by wild animals my body would be buried in Ash and lost forever my little brother and sister would think I abandoned them I couldn't let that happen I could never beat them but that didn't mean I wasn't going to fight back gritting my teeth I slowly pulled my father's hunting knife out of my boot I Darted forward hiding the knife in front of my body when I reached the same place I'd made it to before

I lashed out just in time to see the blur of a shape moving in front of me I felt the knife hit its Mark and sink into flesh another blow sent me flying backwards but not before I heard a cry of surprise from my Tormentor you little [ __ ] Nigel exclaimed he sounded more amused than upset first of all I'm sure you know that the punishment for attacking an Elite with violence is death zero exceptions I was thinking of letting you go after toying with you for a while of course but that's out of

the question now secondly he grabbed me by the hair and forced me to look at his forearm a large deep gash from my knife was just beginning to seal itself up we heal quickly even if you haven't had much personal experience with our kind surely you've heard the rumors we're practically Immortal you can't hurt us You on the other hand he brought his fingernails softly down the side of my face and let one sink into my skin I felt a drop of blood run down my cheek So Soft so fragile he murmured his gaze dropped

from my chin to my chest and he brushed away a lock of my dark hair the neckline of my shirt hung open and my torso was Dripping with sweat there was a flicker in his Amber eyes that turned my blood cold I'd seen that look before from Men in The village when they didn't know I was looking licking his lips Nigel motioned for his friends to pin me down I screamed as he tore off my shirt exposing my bra that's enough a voice tore through the meadow with such force that the wild flowers bowed their

heads through my tears I saw a blurry shape walk into the clearing the newcomer had a blue jacket and beige pants he carried himself with the calm confidence of someone who expected to be Obeyed the other Elites backed away but Nigel held his ground we're just having some fun Damian of course you're welcome to join us Nigel smiled she doesn't look like she's having fun the newcomer said nodding at me his hair was light blonde and had a glowing shine to it and you're breaking the law Commons aren't to be harmed not without consent we

follow the agreement just like them that's the only way this works she broke the rules first one of the others piped up she shouldn't Even be out here the newcomer shot him a piercing look and he dropped his eyes to the ground it's not as if she was going to tell anyone Nigel grumbled besides who would believe her the one called Daman took a step closer and I saw muscles tighten under his jacket I won't let a fool like you ruin a century of progress he kept his voice calm and low but I could sense

the threat behind them we don't obey you the blonde one called out but there was uncertainty in his Eyes but you will obey the Covenant and the laws of our people or you will face the consequences Daman reached down and grabbed my blouse he shook off the Ash and handed it back to me I clutched it against my bare skin then tugged it on awkwardly under the watchful gaze of four powerful Elite when I was done Damen held out a hand and helped me up his eyes were Vivid blue the color of the sky I'd

never seen and softed with Concern we're sorry about this Miss he said you're welcome to file a complaint through your community leaders or at the next council meeting Nigel scoffed glaring at Daman then he bared his teeth in a feral snarl this was a mistake Nigel said you won't always have your father to protect you then he and the others moved away sullenly leaving me alone with the stranger I tugged on my shirt and clamored to my feet I can go I asked Damian nodded gesturing with one hand that I was free to leave my

heart was still pounding in my ears I knew I should run home immediately but I hated to return empty-handed I took two hesitant steps before turning back and the deer I asked nodding at the fresh carcass I was pushing my luck but I had to try Daman raised his dark eyebrows in surprise that deer would feed my whole Family for weeks I said with a shrug I'd rather not not leave it here to rot could you even carry a buck that big the elite crossed his arms studying the deer while I studied him his face

was strong with a proud chin and a straight nose but his skin looked smooth and soft if he were human he might have been a few years older than me I picked up my knife and wiped it off against my jeans I could cut it into manageable chunks and make several trips you'd need me to Stand guard he frowned and I hadn't exactly planned to babysit my cheeks flushed red I can take care of myself I lied right Damen laughed how was that going for you before I showed up his smile made him twice as

handsome and an aching warmth spread through my body tell you what he said I'll walk you to the fence and throw the deer over you can dress it once you're safely inside the compound I'd be greatly indebted to you I said With an awkward curtsy I had no idea how I was supposed to behave with him I'd never been this close to an elite before and certainly never spoken with one he smelled like soap and foreign spices that tickled my nose he walked me back to the fence carrying the buck easily in one hand I

realized he was holding it out away from him probably so he wouldn't get blood on his fine clothes when we reached the wall Damian swung the buck over the fence then watched me As I looped my shawl around the branch i' dropped from I hauled myself up until I could reach the limb the perimeter fences are for your safety he said as he watched me scramble across the tree branch and drop down on the other side there's a reason we built the compounds I'll send someone to cut this tree down someone should have noticed it

earlier but if there's another way out and you come out here again I doubt you'll Survive I nodded my eyes wide and serious I could feel the gentle Buzz of the electric fence between us I never knew an elite could be like you I blurted out as he turned away he glanced back at me over his shoulder and raised one eyebrow incredibly dashing he smirked his features were so symmetrical they almost made me dizzy like two perfect halves adding up to something more than a hole his blue eyes were like an anchor grounding me against

the Tumbling sensation in my stomach kind I said he frowned then and his eyes stormed over don't expect it to happen again Nigel's not one to forgive a slight easily and next time I won't be there to save you oh and you'd better clean yourself up before going home I frowned as I looked down at myself half covered in mud Sweat and Tears along with a few dark stains of blood great first impression before I had a chance to Respond Damen headed back towards the woods I watched him until he disappeared into the ash my

body was buzzing uncomfortably the way it did when I was in danger only this time it wasn't just from the electric events chapter 2 it wasn't until I was alone that I felt my lungs burning I'd breathed too much Ash but renewal was in 3 days I would just have to survive until then I Wheezed my way home suddenly exhausted after this morning's ordeal sweet Mercy my mom said when I appeared in the doorway my clothes and face were covered in blood and I was lugging an enormous flank of deer across my shoulder I haven't

seen an animal like that in 20 years not since your father and I were young where on Earth I had to walk for miles before I caught its tracks I said but how did the poor thing get through the fence she asked I don't know I said Shrugging my shoulders must have jumped she looked in both directions before ushering me in I wasn't one of the licensed Hunters so technically I didn't have the right to hunt on public land as long as I was just feeding my family nobody really cared but a catch this big

was hard to ignore I'll start cooking this up she said as I heaved the carcass onto the kitchen table she tied an apron around her blue dress and pulled her dark hair into a Ponytail there is more out by the fence I said Jamie she called go help your sister carry the meat in my little brother poked his head down the stairs his hair was golden blonde just like my little sister laury I was the black sheep of the family not only several years older than my siblings but my hair is Tangled and dark like

a spider's web or a bird's nest mom said I should try brushing it instead of climbing trees and getting in Trouble that's all right I replied before he could come down I'll grab Trev he'll be able to carry more wash your face first mom instructed handing me a wet rag you'll scare the neighbors I winced as I ran the cloth over the cut on my cheek I had a bruise on my stomach as big as an eggplant from where Nigel punch punched me and his fingers had left marks on my arms I changed shirts and

pulled on a long sleeve jacket before heading back Outside I knocked on the door of the third house down the street and waited impatiently Trevor's father was the town blacksmith and the two of us had been best friends since we were little he spent most of his days fishing the small stream that came through our land and we often traded fish for pheasants and rabbits at the town's Market I grinned as he opened the door filling the frame with his broad shoulders I've got something for you I told him but you're Going to have to

help me carry it rabbit he asked pushing his dark hair away from his eyes better I grinned he grabbed his jacket Then followed me through town it took us 5 minutes to clear the residential area neat rows of cottage and cabins that were constructed after the calling Trev gasped when he saw the kill what did you tell your mom he asked eyes wide no way a buck that big could have squeezed through the fence will full ignorance I said she's not that Interested in where I go it's a shame the antlers broke off this would

have made one hell of a trophy where did you shoot it he asked checking the body how many arrows did it take to bring it down it's complicated I said lamely clasping my fingers together in front of me Trev ran his fingers over the flank and froze when he reached the neck these are bite marks he murmured turning white then he spun around and grabbed me by the shoulders did they see You he demanded I shook my head but kept my eyes down so he wouldn't read the LIE off my face I was careful they

were just hunting it for sport and they left the body Trev clenched his hands into fists and squeezed them together I knew he was trying to keep from shouting at me I don't know how many times he'd made me promise not to go over the fence without him he lifted my chin to study the scratch on my cheek you could have been killed he said Softly I was startled to hear his voice shake a little if anybody knew you were past the barrier if they found out you could be flogged or worse you know meat's

been scarce lately and with the festival tonight I just wanted to give them something to remember me by you're not going anywhere trev's voice rumbled in his chest almost like a growl Trev reached down and took my hand in his rubbing his thumb gently Over my knuckles I lowered my eyes unable to meet the intensity of his gaze I need you to be more careful if anything happened to you he stared down at me with warm eyes and I felt my skin tingle heat flushed my cheeks when he leaned in closer our breaths mingling but

just as he was about to kiss me I shoved him away and punched him on the shoulder laughing it was fake and strained sure but it was better than the alternative Trev forced a chuckle Brushing a lock of curly brown hair away from his face but I could tell he was annoyed I knew how he felt about me how could I not sure I'd noticed the changes in him these last two years I wasn't blind sometimes when he helped his dad in the shop his strong arms pounding a sledgehammer onto Red Hot Rods of metal

his sculpted ABS would drip with sweat I'll admit I've had inappropriate thoughts but I wasn't sure I was ready to risk our Friendship besides even if we wanted to be together we didn't have the right to make that decision ision relationships in the compound were forbidden until after the choosing why even get our hopes up if it could all be taken away Trev helped carry the meat back then kissed my mom on the cheek while stealing a piece of her famous apple crumble pie he winked at me as She chased him out the door with

a wooden Spoon then she frowned at my appearance and pointed upstairs most days I wore my dad's old trousers but tonight was Festival the biggest holiday of the year we didn't have many occasions to get dressed up and I knew my mom wanted me to look nice normally I'd resist but this could be my last festival at home and I'd do anything to make my mother happy after showering I put on my favorite dress and dabbed just a hint of Red lipstick on on my lips for color I rarely wore makeup but it looked great

with the green fabric it was the same dress I wore last year but the fabric was only slightly frayed I'd grown so quickly this would probably be the last time I could wear it before handing it down to laury my little sister my pale skin looked Almost White against the forest green dress and dark circles from weeks of disturbed sleep made my eyes look unnaturally Large I'd always looked forward to Festival there would be lights firecrackers apple pie and ice cream games and dancing but this year was different I felt a knot in my stomach

and chewed on my bottom lip only the prettiest girls got chosen I told myself I knew I was too thin and Tall all knees and elbows but I hated the uncertainty this could be my last night in the compound my last night with my Friends and family and the only life I had ever known I sigh then went downstairs to help my mom finish setting up the table in front of our house it was no use worrying about what I couldn't control Jamie and laury were already running around the meadow involved in some game that

involved sticks and ribbons Trev whistled when he saw me and I rolled my eyes at him he had repaired the buck head with screws and steel wire And the Magnificent antlers stood proudly from the table in front of our house we were roasting the meat on a spit fat dripped into the coals releasing the delicious smell of crushed herbs and garlic it would probably feed 200 people we weren't a wealthy family and in some previous years we'd had a disappointing showing it was nice to feel like we were actually contributing this year at Festival each

family put out an array of prepared dishes and Everybody shared and sampled for wealthier families it was a chance to show off for poorer families a chance to eat Delicacies they could only drink dream about the rest of the year the council members also used Festival as a way to keep track of how the households were doing so that they could assess rations 10% of each family's income went to the council and they could save it store it or redistribute it as necessary we had lean months but nobody went Hungry there were 2,735 people in

in algrave I knew the exact number because population was monitored and each compound never exceeded 3,000 people a large sign near the front Gates was updated daily to account for births and deaths as long as there were no problems the elites mostly left us alone to manage ourselves travel was forbidden though special access passes could be obtained for trade study or in rare cases marriage which left Some room for interaction and communication between different compounds and there were dozens of compounds I didn't know how many my father told me once he'd been to three others

in his life there were some small differences in dress and food he said but they were pretty much the same the wine of the purification machines the neat rows of houses the electric fence to keep out Predators I turned towards the stage at The sound of music playing through the speakers just in time to see mayor Thompson grab a microphone a moment later his voice boomed over the crowd welcome everyone to the 98th Annual Festival of algrave people started cheering and clapping their hands please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance I put my right

hand over my heart and recited it from memory along with everyone else I pledge allegiance to the kingdom which was Founded for my protection I'm thankful for the Covenant between our two races which saved my humanity and The Elixir that restores my body peace health and life for all Trevor Stood Beside Me and I noticed his arms were crossed I nudged him with my elbow and he raised a hand to his heart but kept his lips tightly pressed together sure life wasn't perfect in algrave but the purification engines kept the compound free of Ash and

the weekly renewal ceremony Prevented sickness everyone knew the alternative was death with the poisonous Ash and the mutant creatures that roamed the Wilderness living in the compound was the only way for humans to survive what other choice was there there were several minor announcements but nothing formal the festival was a celebration not a pageant that would come tomorrow enjoying the excitement I wandered around with Jamie and laury looking at All the decorated tables and grabbing handfuls of food we'd already made one loop around the main square and were about to get in line for cinnamon

crisps when I saw Trevor talking with a man I didn't recognize I started to wave but something about their posture made me hesitate they stood in the shadows next to a barn almost like they didn't want to be seen I knew everyone in algrave but I'd never seen this bearded stranger He was wearing a long coat that seemed thicker than necessary and a knitted cap lined with fur with flaps that covered his ears was he from another compound how did Trev know him I watched him dig into his pocket then hand something to Trev I

saw the glint of metal Changing Hands just before someone slammed into my shoulder Jessica's eyes lit up when she saw me but not because we were friends her father was on the city council And she was easily the prettiest girl in the compound I usually went out of my way to avoid Jessica and her Sidekicks nice dress Emily she sneered I remember it from last year but don't worry it totally looks great on you nobody else would know how old it is looking forward to tomorrow I for one can't wait to get out of this

place Jessica was wearing a pink dress that looked brand new it must have been traded in one of the Other compounds her blonde hair fell in perfect Tangles around her pearshaped face of course she'd get chosen at least you can look forward to staying in the compound hunting rabbits or whatever I guess the blood is the only way to cover your hands she'd been teasing me about my birth marks for years red splotches that ran from my wrists to the ends of my fingertips tips they looked like stains from picking berries but more angular like

Thorns bir marks were fairly common in the compound but mine were more visible than most she wasn't wrong though what kind of elite would choose a girl with such an obvious defect like usual I wished for a Snappy comeb back but came up empty only this time it was worse because the ash in my lungs made me feel like I couldn't breathe like I was choking on my own tongue I was saved when my best friend Amber interrupted us see you later Sweeties hopefully never she steered me away from Jessica's glare as I went into

a coughing fit Amber handed me a glass of blackberry wine and I took a few gulps to clear my throat nervous about tomorrow she asked shoving a scone in her mouth I loved that she wasn't worried about her figure the day before choosing she was obviously more interested in the sweets then in going to the Citadel of Lights I plucked an extra scone off her plate and tore it Apart with my fingers it was soft and sweet with just a hint of bitter from the sesame seeds I don't know I Shrugged maybe I was under

no delusions that I was going to get picked the this was allg grave after all maybe one out of every 10 girls in algrave got chosen and this year there were 45 of us I wasn't even very pretty in comparison honestly I was more nervous about what would happen after the Ceremony I'd be expected to make big decisions that would determine the rest of my life I wasn't ready to map out my whole future when the band began to play Amber grabbed my arm and dragged me out to the dance floor she spun me around

her curly red hair bouncing in the lights we let the music surround us and I felt it invade my senses as if my entire world consisted of notes and chords the lights were blurry and I knew I'd had too much Wine but I was having too much fun to stop when the song changed Laura Le Jamie and I joined hands and spun in circles then Trev joined in we laughed until I couldn't breathe and fell down exhausted into the grass I landed on Trev and lay there for a while cushioned in the grass with trev's

warm arm supporting my head and the world spinning a few kids ran by with sparklers just as the fireworks show began they were so beautiful and and the Music was so touching that I felt my eyes tear up even though I didn't think I would be picked it still felt like I was saying goodbye Trev glanced over at me then jumped up and grabbed my hand he hauled me up and put an arm around my waist pulling me closer what are you doing I asked a smile curving the corners of my lips the blackberry wine

was making me bold Just One Dance Before instead of resisting I leaned into him resting my Head on his chest I could give him this at least we spun slowly in time to the music a Melancholy song that made me burst with longing maybe it was the wine or the song or the anxiety of what tomorrow would bring but when he reached down and lifted my chin I didn't pull away his kiss was soft and gentle as I knew it would be it made me feel safe and warm I know I'm supposed to wait until

tomorrow he said holding up something small and shiny but tomorrow You'll have a dozen suitors with gold rings better than this one they'll be lining up at your door so I thought before you get any ideas about marrying someone smarter or richer or better looking I better make an effort for just a moment I let myself sink into the familiar Daydream me and Trevor married raising children in algrave it would be a simple happy life he'd take over his father's shop I'd Continue hunting he was probably the only man in the compound who wouldn't expect

me to spend all day cooking and cleaning his proposal didn't surprise me and really there was nobody else I would seriously consider marrying but he didn't have the right not until tomorrow not until after the choosing if I'm still here tomorrow I said slowly running my hands up his chest to Pat his shoulders I promise to think about it I Smirked at him rolling his eyes he kissed me again but we took it no further the laws were strict I had to keep myself pure until the choosing just then there was a loud bang and

a flash of light I thought it was just another firework at first but then I heard the shouts Trev and I ran toward the noise a crowd was already gathering around the wooden stage that was set up for the ceremony tomorrow Flames licked its wooden support beams And a large charred hole swallowed up half of the stairs beside me trev's mouth was pulled tight but there was a flicker of something else in his eyes I saw my mom at the edge of the crowd with a hand up to her heart she was standing unsteadily before

I could reach her she collapsed to the side onto the ground mom I yelled I pushed through the crowd until we reached my mother she's breathing Trev said and her pulse is strong let's get her home I said Trev Lifted her up and we headed quickly towards our house we just reached the front porch when she opened her eyes I'm fine she said Trevor put me down please Trav placed her gently on the sofa and I covered her up with a blanket she looked thinner than I remembered why hadn't I noticed earlier what happened I

asked squeezing her Palm just all the excitement I guess she said I must have fainted I bit my lip but didn't say anything at least not in front of Trevor My mom was usually up before I was and I'd never seen her faint before she assured us she was fine then shed Trevor out of the house so I could get my beauty rest before the ceremony tomorrow are you sure you're okay I asked never better she said with a smile that didn't reach her eyes don't worry about me I'll be fine tomorrow is a big

day for you for all of us try and get some rest I wanted to push further but I knew she wouldn't tell me anything not tonight I Headed upstairs to my room in the Attic crouching under the low ceiling to reach my bed I'd been dreading the choosing for months and usually tried not to think about it on the eve of the big day however I couldn't ignore it any longer what if I was chosen tomorrow my family would be taken care of for life but it didn't seem fair that Trev and I couldn't just

decide to be together if some Elite claimed me for his own Instead The Citadel of Lights was as much a fairy tale as my father's monsters something promised to all little girls be good and you'll get chosen and moved to the Citadel of lights be naughty and the slag paaw will get you I wondered how much of the stories I heard were based on reality the girls chosen almost never returned to talk about it but living with an elite being married to one I couldn't even imagine it reaching up I brushed my Lips with my

fingers remembering trev's soft kisses a future with him never scared me suddenly my mind flashed to a set of mesmerizing blue eyes wondering what it would be like to kiss the lips they belonged to I blushed at the thought before today I'd been terrified of the elite but I'd never met one like Damian before and the fact that I couldn't stop thinking about him was seriously confusing what did that mean for Whatever I felt about Trev I'd known him my whole life and I was comparing him to someone I'd only known a day as I

drifted into a fitful dream of soft lips and blue skies I was no longer entirely sure I wanted to be overlooked at the choosing chapter 3 my mother surprised me in the morning with a parcel on the foot of my bed wrapped with twine inside was a new gown in lightweight Scarlet fabric that felt like air it must have taken her years to Save up for it and the dress wasn't the only surprise from downstairs I could smell bacon and coffee when my father was alive we'd have them every week before renewal but it had

been months since Mom could afford to make what she called a proper breakfast she must have traded some of the deer meat I let the scense pull me downstairs my mom had a frantic smile which was both EXC Ed and nervous she piled food onto my plate and set me down by my brother and sister Thankfully nobody felt like talking about the ceremony my brother was old enough to know that it meant I might be leaving and he seemed Sullen my sister was too young to worry about the future and was still buzzing from last

night's festivities and counting up all the hard candies she'd been given after breakfast mom Mom filled the tub with buckets of hot water so I could soak and helped me try on the dress the smooth fabric fit Like a second skin but was so light it made me feel naked and exposed I didn't have any Fancy Shoes like I'd seen Jessica wear so I put on a pair of leather sandals instead of my usual boots mom frowned at the scrape on my cheek and the bruises on my arm she tried to to cover them up

with an old jar of foundation you couldn't go a week without hurting yourself could you I didn't hear you complaining when I brought home the deer last night I Snapped I know she sighed it hasn't been easy since your father died I just wanted this day to be perfect for you it's a big moment possibly the biggest in your life thanks I said no pressure or anything thing I don't even know if I want this luckily it's not up to you we have a lot of blessings in algrave but our safety comes with sacrifice whatever

happens we're proud of you my mom said as she was fixing up my hair you've grown up into a beautiful Young woman I know your father would be proud she hugged me and I bit back a tear then before before I knew it we were out the door heading towards the front Gates around with the rest of our neighbors Amber found me in the crowd and grabbed my hand she was also dressed up more so than I'd ever seen her in a purple dress with sequins the crowds parted around us as we made it to

the front to watch the elites arrive with their Vehicles I'd seen the procession before of course but always from the crowd this year would be different as one of the girls who turned 17 in the past year I would be called up on stage only a few would be chosen there were far more Commons than Elites and the elites had dozens of other compounds to visit in this region they didn't have to choose this year either they had a 10-year period in which to make their selection because the elites lived so Long they were also

allowed to pick a new partner every 10 years there would be a 1-month trial period before a formal ceremony in the capital and then a 10-year partnership after that they'd either turn their Partners into an elite in what they called an Ascension ceremony keep them on as human mates or send them back to their families over 100 years ago mankind was dying the crowd hushed as the voice thundered over the crowd their violence and blood lust Had caused centuries of War nuclear conflict scorched the skies killing billions genetically engineered pathogens were accidentally released in the

destruction mutating the remaining survivors into grotesque beasts we call this the calling when Humanity was brought to the brink of Extinction but then a group of scientists trying to find a cure discovered something else something much more powerful a potion For immortality a sacred gift with miraculous qualities they had discovered the Elixir the speaker raised up a small Crystal vial and the crowd oo and AED on Q I could tell he was an elite from the way he carried himself that effortless movement the fluid confidence he also looked Vaguely Familiar from last year I'd heard

this story before of course it was repeated practically word for word at every Choosing ceremony what they could not foresee however the elite continued was that every gift comes with a price The Elixir caused rapid healing and cellular regeneration halt the aging process completely cured disease and even made one immune to the poisonous Ash but it did this at the expense of the host the regenerative properties of The Elixir demanded fresh blood to complete its simple programming and The Thirst became great those treated were stronger and faster than any ordinary human but they needed blood

to survive human trafficking became rampant as fathers sold whole families to Elites in exchange for a bit of The life-saving Elixir communities of humans worked together to trap and butcher Elites then drain them of their healing blood governments toppled powerless to stop the Bloodshed and the race Wars began The elite and the commons slaughtered each other for decades all of this was taught in history class we had mandatory schooling until we were 13 but the elite was a masterful Storyteller and held the audience wrapped with attention the elites went into hiding their numbers fewer and

fewer until at last the great King Richard brought all the elites together and made peace with the humans King Richard in his Magnificence built the purification engines and invited the humans to live in gated communities around the elite stronghold The Citadel of light free from the poisonous Ash and the Monsters beyond the gates humans could live in health and Harmony a covenant was struck between King Richard and and the first settlers ensuring mutual benefits to both races the elite would provide government organization law and structure the compounds would provide Work art and craft and Manpower

the Covenant was sealed with the exchange of blood humans living in the compound would provide blood willingly to the elite while the elites would give in habitants a single drop of Elixir each week during renewal to keep them strong and healthy violence between the races was forbidden in return to cement Mutual trust and remind us of our pact it was decided that each Elite will choose a Human companion this Union serves to remind us of our humanity and to quench the rage of our thirst now we live together in harmony as partners the two races

complimenting each other and helping one another live together or die apart the crowd repeated the last line dutifully reciting the motto of our kingdom my lips moved but no sound came out Amber squeezed my hand and then it was time The mayor stepped forward and began calling names my heart pounded when he got to mine Emily sherrow I somehow moved my legs forward and started climbing the stairs with trembling knees the scorched wood from the night before had already been replaced with new boards I was so fixated on them I nearly stumbled over my new

dress I joined the rest of the girls and lined up on stage my eyes sought out my family in the Crowd my mother looked happier than I'd ever seen her I forced myself to remember that she wasn't trying to get rid of me she was just doing what she felt was best for our family if I were chosen she would have one less mouth to feed I would live in the Citadel of Lights in luxury and comfort and never have to work again she meanwhile along with my brother and sister would get special treatment and

allocation of resources which would include moving to A larger house for her sake I'd get through this I knew I should be more excited at the idea of being swept off my feet by a handsome Suitor most girls would give anything to get picked by an elite I was curious sure but more nervous than eager and I hated being all dressed up and on display staying in algrave was easy it's what I knew I loved Trev like a brother maybe but so what we could be happy together it could be a good life I tried

To convince myself but felt a familiar anxiety at the idea of staying in all grave if I didn't get chosen I'd spend the rest of my life Within These Gates part of me longed for more for my life to mean something and after yesterday the idea of getting chosen lit me up with feelings I'd never experienced before I glanced over at the line of Elites trying to catch a glimpse of Damian's blonde hair my rosy Daydreams were shattered when I saw Nigel on the Side of the platform huddled with his Entourage from yesterday there were

about a dozen elites on the stage but he stood out with his slicked back hair and dark eyebrows our eyes connected and he leared at me my blood froze and my heart pounded in my chest I gagged as I remembered him forcing himself on top of me I would rather die than be his consort my eyes swept over the elites desperately looking again for Damian but he was nowhere to be seen Prince Hartman The announcer called looking to his left First Choice goes to you I gaped when Damian stepped forward wearing a dark suit and

a Regal red cape that hung to his knees it was lined with fur and sported the Royal Crest of the Hartman line he'd been sitting in a sculpted chair in the back which explained why I hadn't seen him before my pulse caught in my throat he was right there he could actually choose me Damien scanned the line of girls frowning thoughtfully his Eyes landed on me and for just a moment I allowed myself to Hope I even let my lips lift in the slightest of smiles hoping Trev wouldn't see it had only been a day

but if Daman recognized me at all he gave no indication he merely waved his hand and turned his back on all of us my heart dropped into my stomach I stared at the ground trying to hide my crushing disappointment of course he didn't want me he was an elite and the most Beautiful boy I'd ever seen and a prince but whatever I didn't want to be chosen anyway the announcer called the next Elite continuing the ceremony and a man with a long nose and blue Paisley shirt stepped forward this one took more time examining each

girl closely like he was choosing a cut of beef I sighed with relief when he passed me as each Elite examined and then discarded the line of girls on display I relaxed more and more The crowd however began to Grumble it would be insulting to our compound's honor if none of the girls got chosen this year the fourth Elite however chose a girl named Mary and the crowd erupted in cheers the elite raised Mary's hand up to his lips and kissed it she blushed and smiled then clasped her hands in front of her overcome with

emotion the crowd hooted and clapped I'd never been very close with her but I was glad for her happiness Mary took her seat with an Air of satisfaction and the crowd finally quieted there were only a few more to go now soon this whole ordeal would be behind me and my life would go back to normal I'd return to my family for a while then marry Trev and get a house of our own everything would work out for the best finding him in the crowd I smiled down at him and gave a little wave Trev

grinned back at me holding laureli up so she could see the Stage then suddenly my view was replaced by a sneer and dark oily hair Nigel he wasn't unattractive of course none of them were his features were chiseled and strong he resembled an actor from the movie pictures the count set up on the weekends but when he looked at me slowly drawing his eyes down my body I felt sick to my stomach I stared at my feet trying to ignore him but it was no use Nigel reached up and lifted my chin forcing me to

look him in The eyes he smiled then brushed one long finger across my lips no please God no no I screamed inside my head my knees trembled and I felt like I was about to pass out and fall off the stage the corner of his lip curled slightly he knew the effect he had on me and he liked it this one he called loudly seizing my hand and holding it up to his lips then he leaned in close and whispered into my ear I can't wait to get get you to my room and tear you

to Pieces then I'll heal you and do it again he bowed and presented me with a red rose the symbol of his choice I knew my duty I was supposed to accept it but my body went rigid horrified by what was happening around me I considered throwing myself off the stage it looked high enough if I landed the wrong way I might be able to break my own neck I'm sure it would be less painful than what Nigel had in store for me through the tears building at the rims of my eyes I Found my

mother in the crowd she was crying too but hers were tears of joy and pride our neighbors were congratulating her with hugs and pats on the back if I died right now my family would get nothing if I was going to kill myself the least I could do was wait until after the ceremony was finished I took a deep breath forcing myself to regain control Nigel's grin was triumphant as I reached for the rose with trembling Fingers I invoke my right to claim said a calm but firm voice from the side of the stage my

head whipped around and my jaw dropped as Damian pushed to the front of the group of Elites right to claim what the hell there were murmurs from the crowd and commotion from the other Elites mayor Thompson was fumbling through his paperwork looking almost comically dumbfounded it's too late for that Nigel yelled stomping his foot both His hands clenched into fists you had your chance Hartman you passed She's mine now and I'll do with her whatever I like Damian didn't even raise an eyebrow but the others shrunk away from him as if his mere presence were

a threat as the crowned Prince of the Hartman line I can make my selection of any chosen at any time before the partnership is consummated as long as I have the permission of the chosen in question right Tobias yes um that's right of course the announcer stammered although I don't think it's ever been used before his eyes darted back and forth between Nigel and Damian like he was expecting to have to step between them were two Elites seriously going to start fighting over me I gasped as daman's bright blue eyes fixed me with a penetrating

stare any kindness he'd shown before was gone now he just looked annoyed angry even do you consent he demanded his voice like steel I gaped at him speechless how had my life come to this last night it felt like the world was full of possibilities now now I was being forced to choose between a man who seemed completely disinterested in me and a man who only wanted to cause me pain disinterest it was I nodded my head I yes I consent I said not entirely sure what I was consenting to instinctively I searched the crowd

for Trev again but Immediately wished I hadn't before that moment I didn't know so much grief and anger could exist in one person at the same time glaring at me he removed laury from his shoulders before disappearing into the crowd I bit my lip to stem the guilt flooding through me then it's settled the announcer declared Nigel do you wish to choose from among the other young ladies of algrave no damn it Nigel yelled stamping his foot against the stage so hard the platform trembled Beneath us it was like watching Jamie throw a tantrum when

he was a toddler in a grown Elite it was much more unnerving Nigel gripped my arm so tight I was sure he would leave a bruise this isn't over he grunted his voice hardly more than a hiss in my ear watch yourself human then he shoved past me shaking I sat down in my chair staring at my hands I was in shock I hardly heard the rest of the ceremony my tears blurred my vision as I stared down at The ugly stains on my hands when I was little I used to look for patterns in

them meaning of some kind but I knew the truth now there was no meaning no purpose to my life the remaining Elite took turns making their selections I vaguely heard that jessicaa had been chosen and then the ceremony was over tomorrow after renewal I'd be claimed and move with Prince Damian to the Citadel of light chapter 4 I practically ran home after the the ceremony if one more person got in my way to congratulate me I was going to punch them I locked myself in my room and stripped off the stupid dress I tossed it

into a drawer and glared at it as if it was the reason I'd been chosen who knows maybe it had been no Elite would want me if they saw the way I really looked then I remembered Damian had seen me climbing a tree in my dirty clothes after nearly getting myself Killed and he'd still chosen me though from the scowl he'd given me he wasn't happy about it I changed into my most comfortable clothes jeans and a black sweater before pulling on my boots I wanted to feel like myself again if only for one last

day I heard the door open downstairs as my family came in and realized I hadn't said goodbye to Amber [ __ ] I should have waited for her I should have consoled her for not getting picked mom raised an eyebrow at me when I came downstairs in my regular clothes but she didn't say anything I could read her thoughts anyway you're wearing that the night after choosing the village had a potluck to share all of the leftover food from Festival the mood was tempered by the results of the ceremony three of us had been chosen

today apparently the last time that happened was 20 years ago the whole town was elated neighbors kept dropping by and giving us more food my little siblings eyes grew bigger as pies Cakes and Peach cobblers stacked up on our kitchen table and the Gathering Spilled Out into the street in front of our house all I wanted to do was go out and find Amber and Trevor to say goodbye but my mother wouldn't let me out of her sight and it was her last night with me as well I hated being the center of attention but

the suspicious glances I got were even worse a lot of the villagers had never really looked at me until today and they Were surprised to see my casual clothes and muddy boots their eyes lingered over the dark stains on my palms and fingers I heard a young girl whisper how did she get chosen finally I saw Amber and jumped up to hug her thank God you're here I said I've been going crazy I can't imagine getting chosen by two Elites that never happens who are are you she smiled but I knew her well enough to

see the pain in her eyes she was still in her purple Dress which seemed sad now that she'd been rejected for the remaining girls however tonight was the beginning of their new lives as women they were officially free to date and find a husband I wish we were going together I said don't worry I'm sure you and Jess cow will have loads of fun she laughed when I made a face I grabbed her a cup of wine and we sat down on a hanging bench under a dogwood tree across from my house it was Close

enough that my mother could still see me but far enough from the crowd that we could speak freely white blossoms from the tree scattered around us creating a soft carpet with a sweet floral scent if it makes you feel any better I heard she's livid that you got chosen before her nothing could make me feel better I said I didn't realize how tragic I sounded until I saw a flash of anger on her face oh yeah moving into a palace with a Handsome prince your life totally sucks I frowned I'd been expecting more sympathy I

mean sure I hadn't told her everything that had happened in the woods so she had no idea what was really going on but a little support would be nice I'm just nervous all right I never expected to get picked that's what makes this so annoying she sigh I mean you have Trev and then you get chosen and you don't even want it you don't want any of it but I still love you and I Don't want to fight she said not on our last night together don't say that I said I might be back in

a month I don't even know if I'll make it through the trial period I heard they have all kinds of tests and challenges you better she said pinching my arm because I want to see the Citadel what good is having a best friend get chosen if she doesn't bring you with her for a visit you think they let me do that I asked I've heard of it happening before If you please your husband and prove yourself a worthy consort once you're married you'll be a citizen and will have more power not to mention you'll be

wealthier than anyone in the village oh my God since you're marrying a prince will that make you a princess or a queen her eyes bulged with excitement and I giggled at the image here hold this she said shoving her drink into my hands she grabbed a handful of of twigs and white blossoms and weaved them into a Rudimentary Crown I spun in a circle pretending to wave a magic wand like I was a fairy in one of the stories her mother told us when we were younger she laughed until I stumbled and then bent over

in another coughing fit my lungs were getting worse you went outside the fence again didn't you Amber said shaking her head I'll be fine tomorrow I said but I should probably get some sleep I just have to talk with Trev first that might be hard she said I saw Him a couple hours ago and he was already drunk he's probably passed out in an alley by now my eyes widened at that news I hadn't seen Trev go on a bender for years since we finished off a bottle of gin together and he puked his guts

out afterwards take care Amber gave me a long hug then walked briskly away without saying goodbye I knew she didn't want me to see her cry I slipped from my mother's gaze And headed towards the Center Square from the sound of the music and voices half the town was already there I searched the crowd for Trevor but didn't see him I saw a friend of his though jumping around among the spinning circles of people I shoved through the dancing bodies and shouted his name will his face was flushed from exertion and his eyes glazed from

drink but a wide smile covered his freckled face when he saw me he grabbed me by the Waist and started twirling me around his hands were sweaty in mine as he swung me in circles he was scrawny but knew his way around a d floor where's Trev I hollered in his ear the music was so loud he still couldn't hear me what Trev understanding will turned and pointed to the far side of the square I squinted and could just make out someone leaning on a hay bale by the beverage tent I threaded my way through

the crowd but when I got to the edge of the Dance Floor the figure stood he swayed then staggered forward a few steps one of the lights illuminated trev's muscular frame reflecting off the near Empty Bottle clenched in his fist it was the expression on his face however that stopped me cold in all the years I had known him I had never seen such a mix of anger and sadness on his face for the first time since the ch using I realized how much my leaving would cost him he loved me I Knew he did

and I hated that I was forced to break his heart as if reading my thoughts Trev scowled and a look of hatred passed through his eyes I jerked backward like I'd been slapped he'd never looked at me that way before not once trev's lips pressed together in a thin line and in the orange lights from the festival his face appeared almost cruel taking one last drink from the bottle he glared at me before chucking it to the ground in a clatter of Glass then he turned and walked away I stepped over the shards of glass

feeling like they were pieces of My Broken Heart Trevor was my best friend we'd been through so much together over the years I didn't want to leave things like this I stalked after him peering into dark doorways and alleys but he'd vanished I couldn't believe he was actually hiding from me on my last night in algrave I realized how much I needed to talk with someone and explain everything That had happened over the last few days Trevor was my go-to Confidant and I felt even more lost without him besides why was he so angry with

me it's not like I had any choice it was an honor to get chosen and even if I didn't exactly cherish the idea I'd still do my duty as a citizen of all grave why was he acting like this was my fault somehow after a while I gave up searching for him and headed home mom was just finishing up the dishes and Tucking the last of the food into the cellar so it wouldn't go bad I didn't remember the last time we actually had leftovers she looked tired and I thought she'd complain about me ditching

the party when so many people had come to congratulate me instead she pulled out a chair at the kitchen table and made me a cup of peppermint tea I sipped it in silence for for a few minutes enjoying the company and trying not to think about the fact that this might be one of Our last moments together finally mom finished puttering around the kitchen and sat down to join me there's something I need to tell you she said it's best if I tell you now before you leave just in case I don't get another chance

don't say that I said said I'm sure I can come back to visit in a few months I may not have that much time she said Reaching Across the table and gripping my hand I jerked my hand away and stood up Suddenly what are you talking about I asked dread washing over me I'm sick she said simply it's been getting worse when I fainted at the festival that wasn't the first first time it's happened I feel tired all the time and weak I'm not sure how much longer I'll be around but nobody gets sick in

all grave I said what about the renewal can't you just ask for more Elixir isn't that what the Covenant is all about one drop a week for every citizen no more no less it Does keep us healthy and strong but Commons don't live forever we aren't like the elite I'll stay I said quickly I'll take care of you I'll get more meat and trade for medicine Jamie's almost old enough to get a job she smiled sadly and tucked a strand of hair behind my ear you're chosen now she said all my prayers have been answered

I can stop working and Jamie and laury will have more opportunity I don't have to worry about who will take care of them when I'm gone I don't have to worry about who will take care of you you've already given me more than I could have asked for I bit my lip and A Tear ran down my cheek I couldn't believe I hadn't noticed it sooner how thin she's gotten over the last few months how she never seemed to be hungry and let Jamie finish her plate this is ridiculous I said there must be a

way to get more Elixir they can't just let you die it doesn't work like that she said frowning all Humans die at least now I can go in peace knowing my family is taken care of I felt a tightening in my chest she'd been counting on me to get chosen and now my whole family was depending on me but what if I fail the trials I asked what if Damian decides he doesn't want me and sends me back then he's a fool mom laughed and he doesn't deserve you there will be a hundred desperate young

men who would cut off their right arms to marry the girl who was once chosen by Prince Daman don't you worry about that and remember no matter what happens you have a place here she pressed a kiss to my forehead and I closed my eyes chosen or not I will always love you I wrapped my arms around her pulling her close I inhaled the sweet lavender scent of her preserving it in my memory now get some sleep she said patting my leg tomorrow's a big day I headed upstairs with that understatement ringing in my ears

I got ready for bed and turned out the lamp But I couldn't fall asleep I tossed and turned wondering what the morning would bring and worrying about my mother in only a few short hours my entire world would change forever and I might never see my mother again there had to be a way to help her I was grateful I hadn't been chosen by Nigel but Damian hadn't seemed all that pleased with me at the ceremony still he'd been kind to me in the forest maybe once we'd spent some time together I could ask him

to help my Mother but how long would that take and what if I was too late something moved outside my window jarring me from my thoughts I glanced at the clock beside my bed it was too in in the morning who would be out there at this time of night three tiny Pebbles flew at my window making a clink clink clink sound instantly I relaxed I'd been hearing that sound since I was a kid though never so late at night scrambling From my bed I went to the window and lifted the heavy glass I could

just make out trev's form in the Darkness he stood on the edge of the Shadows cast by the Street Lamp when he stepped into the orange circle of light his features were obscured by Dark Shadows I squinted my eyes trying to see better then I waved him inside I stepped back giving him room to climb in my window Trevor unfolded himself and stood up straight he had to Duck his neck so it wouldn't hit the ceiling of my cramped room he rre of alcohol and his eyes were bloodshot but I was glad to see him

I'd have felt terrible if we didn't have a chance to say goodbye run away with me he blurted out at first I thought I'd misheard him you can't be serious I said crossing my arms why not we could be together M you and me just the way it's always been he looked so hopeful like this was a problem he could fix if only He could figure out how where would we go I asked it's death outside the compounds without the machines without the weekly dose of Elixir we wouldn't survive it's worth the risk and there

are other ways to get blood out of an elite my face paled at his suggestion The Elixir was made from diluted Elite blood but only a fool would try to capture an elite that's what led to the race Wars promise me you won't do anything Reckless I said putting my hand on trev's chest he scowled there must be a way out of this they can't just take you of course they can Trevor don't you get it this is the way it's always been one chosen so the entire compound can live in peace I hated to

see him hurt even more to be the cause of it but I needed him to understand of course they can take me away they make the rules we couldn't change this we couldn't fight back the alternative Would be open War and I had no doubt a handful of elite could Massacre our entire community in less than a minute Fury filled his eyes again how can you be okay with this he flung my hand away it's like you wanted to be chosen my head jerked as if I'd been hit his words stung you think I wanted

this to go live with a total stranger to share my blood my body I don't know Trev said raising his voice maybe not until you found out he was a prince I saw the way you looked At him his neck muscles pulsed as he fought to control himself as much as I felt for him trev's jealous boyfriend routine was pissing me off I wanted to hit and hug him at the same time what do you think they'd do to my family if I ran I asked softly they're barely getting by with me here to look

out for them if we left they'd be on their own they might even get punished Trev took a deep breath breath and held it in then he let it out with a heavy Sigh and sunk down onto my bed [ __ ] he said I hadn't thought about that his anger Abad and he looked like himself again I sat next to him and wrapped my arms around him he squeezed me like he'd never let me go burying his face in my dark hair I don't know if I can do this he said I don't know

how to live without you maybe we won't get along I said half joking maybe he'll send me back after the trial period a spark of hope lit his eyes and I wanted to kick myself for Putting it there it was almost as bad as his anger that's brilliant he exclaimed scooting closer to me just be obnoxious and needy and annoying if he can't stand you he'll send you back in a month it happens sometimes I could only remember it happening once 5 years ago to a girl called Sharon she was pretty with curves in all

the right places but she was unstable to say the least it was like she was always in her own little world she had no social skills whatsoever and Honestly it had gotten worse since her return her parents had been devastated when she came home early nobody said anything of course and the family still got some benefits for having a daughter chosen but it was a disgrace to be rejected by an elite it was better by far not to be chosen at all if Nigel had picked me I would have begged to come back early in

disgrace even if it meant being alone for the rest of my life but with Daman it was different now that He'd chosen me for whatever reason I didn't like the idea of being sent away he'd saved me twice after all I didn't want to make him regret his decision Trav seemed to read my mind again but that's not what you want is it he scowled you want to go be that blood sucker's mate don't you I glared at him what right did he have to be such a jerk I was the one who had to

move to the Citadel and leave everyone I had ever loved behind I was the one about to Marry a complete stranger and yet here he was treating me like I was doing something wrong admit it Trav commanded you're not in love with me you want to get away from me you'd rather go be the blood [ __ ] of some Elite Prince than stay here and marry me my eyes widened and I suddenly felt the sting of Tears I'd heard the derogatory slur for the chosen before but never from him ruthlessly I fought them back

I Didn't choose this Trev I said it's the law you know that as well as anyone two races complimenting each other and helping one another live together or die apart I repeated the Mantra but it felt Hollow and empty as soon as it passed my lips whatever Emily I can't talk to you about this anymore I reached for his arm but I didn't know what else to say I pulled the gold ring he'd given me out of my pocket and pushed it into his palm I just want you to be happy I said even If

that's not with me keep it he said setting it down on the dresser as he moved moved towards the window maybe it will help you remember me when you're building a new life with your prince he stepped through the window and perched on the ledge then glanced over his shoulder at me one last time I'm not going to beg you to love me m I'm better than that but I want to marry you to have a life with you and I would do anything to make that happen if you Figure out what you want let

me know I stood at the window for a long time after he'd gone staring after him into the dark when there was no one left to see me I let the tears fall Trev was my best friend the one person who mattered to me as much as my own family and I felt guilty for hurting him I hadn't asked Daman to choose me but Trev hadn't been completely wrong I blushed a little at the thought of my future mate the way his smile turned my insides to Butter how my heart raced when I pictured us

living together I couldn't imagine what my new life would be like but I realized I was actually eager to find out finally the stress of the day caught up to me and I felt exhaustion sink into my bones as I lay back against my thin mattress something Trev said lingered in my brain bubbling towards the surface there were other ways to get elixir I was half asleep when I suddenly bolted upright I knew how to save my Mother chapter 5 morning came too soon the light felt like daggers against my eyelids aggravating a pounding headache

I groaned awake then immediately ran to the bathroom and coughed up black fleg mixed with blood thick dark veins ran beneath my pale skin I felt dizzy and feverish the ash was killing me it made what I had to do today even harder but I didn't have any other options besides rumor had it that the Chosen received more elixir in the Citadel to keep up with their Elite mates I'd just have to last until then the plan was simple in renewal today instead of swallowing my drop of Elixir I'd spit it into a napkin then

rinse it with water into a cup and make my mom a cup of coffee it was better than nothing and maybe the extra dose would help her survive until I could think of another way to save her or petition Damian for special Privileges I could hear the sounds of Jamie and laury as they moved around the kitchen from the banging of pots and pans mom had probably let them cook again I glanced at my alarm clock how late had I slept I splashed cold water on my face tugged on some clothes then went downstairs to

join my family mom was already dressed in her renewal best a soft yellow dress that flowed around her every curve her hair was done up in a neat bun the way she did it every Saturday and she dusted a bit of color on her cheeks in her hands was a wooden tray and a full plate of breakfast food she seemed like she was in perfect health but I knew better well good morning princess nice of you to join us today she smiled but there was a warning in her eyes she didn't want Jamie and laury

to find out about our conversation from last night I nodded slightly and sat down at the table the Blissful Aroma of bacon Potatoes and eggs wafted across the room we made you breakfast Laur squealed as mom put the steaming plate in front of me I stared greedily at the cup of coffee next to the plate of food food it was a luxury for our compound and one of my favorite drinks twice in 2 days was nearly a miracle inhaling deeply I smiled back at her special occasion I asked you're joking right obviously my mother suppressed

an eye roll today would be a special day even if you Hadn't been chosen it's your first day as a woman of course I am happy that you were chosen it's a great honor she looked over me with pride and brushed some hair behind my ear I bit my lip furrowing my eyebrows together my mother cast a worried glance at my young siblings and immediately shifted to reprimand mode apparently she didn't want my lack of enthusiasm to infect the whole family I know it may feel unfair to you Right now Emily but I want you

to remember that the elite don't have to marry our daughters or provide for us they don't have to keep the peace under the Covenant they don't have to offer their blood in renewal to keep us strong and healthy we're lucky that they do it anyway it could be so much worse I frowned at this but held my tongue I'd never really thought about it and until yesterday I would have agreed with my mother but for some reason I Couldn't get trev's voice out of my head maybe things had to be this way but that didn't

mean I had to be grateful about it we left the house just before 11: when the sound of chiming Bells warned us not to be late renewal was held in a small white stucco building with heavy wooden doors and a tall steeple it wasn't the only Renewal Center in algrave there were several of them spread throughout the compound each was similar in design but With unique architectural features my father had explained to me once that the buildings were leftover from before the culling which made them the oldest buildings in the settlement each building was too

small to fit the whole town so we were divided into different buildings and different times a attendance wasn't mandatory but I'd never heard of anyone skipping even with the purification engines skipping renewal for a few weeks in a row was a Bad idea there was a crowd gathering in front of our neighborhood Renewal Center when we arrived I helped my mother carry our gift of baked goods to the offering table leaving my siblings free to find our usual seats renewal had never meant much to me before something about it had always freaked me out a

little I'd hide in the back sometimes reading a book I'd borrowed from the town library and most people learned to ignore me today however was Different even amongst our friends and neighbors there were Whispers a few girls stared at me in awe like I'd suddenly become some foreign creature others pointed and whispered behind their hands as if I couldn't hear them if I couldn't see their lips moving apparently I was the Talk of the Town the luckiest girl alive the luckiest girl anyone had ever heard of twice chosen I heard a few people say three

of us from the allg grave compound had been Chosen this year but I was the surprise pick apparently Damian had never chosen anyone before not ever so naturally the entire compound was wondering what made me so special They scrutinized me looking for answers and frowning when they found none I could tell some people thought the prince must have made a mistake and I had no reason to argue otherwise after muttering the expected greetings to the council leaders that attended our renewal I follow follow my Mother into the ceremonial Hall the inside of the building was

one large room with vaed ceilings tall windows were embedded into the stone walls on either side made from pieces of colored glass the designs in the glass told the story of our compound how the human race had suffered starvation and poisoning how the scientists had created a cure and how the two races had murdered each other for decades then King Richard created the Compounds and led the first settlers into safe havens it showed the leaders of all grave signing the Covenant between our peoples which had allowed for nearly a century of peace and prosperity for

both races we sat in our usual row mom gestured for my brother and sister to move down straightening their hair and clothing as they went the rest of the parishioners filed in around us filling the wooden benches that lined the room The curates stepped into formation at the front of the pulpit they were easy to recognize with their flowing white robes and the unique haircut of their order shaved head on the sides and back with tight rows of braids on top I leaned my head back against the Pew and stared up at the beam that

striped the domed ceiling of the building I had sat through renewal once a week for my entire life I'd long stopped paying attention to the sermon but today each Word seemed to drip with hidden meaning as if it were spoken just for me greetings Brethren the head curate said our expected reply echoed off the walls then he continued with the sermon for thousands of years world religions promised eternal life in new reconstituted bodies a time of bread and honey without sickness pain or suffering but it came at Great cost war famine pestilence death a period

of trials and tribulation weak we call that period the Calling but we've been saved restored to life through the Covenant as a gift to the human race the weaker beings Our Benevolent King Richard shared the restorative powers of his magical blood as a means of protecting us from The Perils of being mortal with it we can Shield ourselves from virus and disease the Elder held up a golden chalice filled with thin red liquid we give thanks to our protectors who have saved us and we celebrate our salvation with The renewal one drop of blood to

purify our bodies two races dependent on each other for survival now Thrive as one as long as the peace is maintained live together or die apart the crowd responded completing the Liturgy the front row Rose and lined up towards the center altar this was it I clutched the scrap of fabric between my fingers I was going to tuck it under my tongue so that I could use it to soak up as much elixir as possible then sneak it back into my Pocket when no one was looking straightening my dress I I stood up and joined

the line with the rest of the congregation until it was my turn to take renewal I was almost at the front of the line when there was a commotion behind me I turned to see a figure emerge from the wings of the church and approached the head curate he was Elite but I didn't recognize him at first my mom bowed her head and fell to her knees following most of the Congregation I was the last one to kneel though I wasn't sure why the footsteps stopped just in front of me and I Heard a Voice

say rise daughter I lifted my head and saw the elite holding a hand out to me from close up I finally recognized him it was the king in person here in algrave he hadn't been seen in the compounds for decades nobody in my Village had ever seen him though many of us had paintings or pictures of him hanging in our houses there was even a Large portrait of him behind the altar dear people of algrave you have become accustomed to your weekly renewal which keeps you healthy and free from pain but I fear delivering it

to you in a container in a silver vessel May desens ize you to the truth of its origin so today in honor of my son's new chosen whom I have come here to collect I wanted to share with you a more personal a more intimate Experience the preacher held up the small white wafer and King Richard took it this is my body which is given for you and for many to promote peace between our races he broke the wafer then he bit his wrist tearing into the flesh until a trickle of dark warm blood filled

the cup it was red like ours but with flexs of silver that sparkled in the light I was so entranced I forgot to put the piece of fabric in my mouth for my mother and now everyone was looking At me [ __ ] this is my blood which I share freely with you to keep you safe to heal your wounds and to soothe your pain he turned his wrist up to stop the bleeding and in seconds it had healed over from this close I could actually see his skin stitching back together like magic an audible

response from the audience told me that they'd seen it too with renewal we healed quickly as well but never like that he dipped the small wafer halfway Into the dark red liquid and nodded towards me I knelt before him at the wooden railing and opened my mouth the way I'd been doing every Saturday since I was a little girl when he put the wafer on my tongue I felt its warmth and its freshness The Elixir we usually received was probably days even weeks old I never really considered where it came from before this time however

the metallic taste of the blood was so strong it almost made me Gag I kept my mouth open hoping to spit out the sacrament when I returned to my Pew but the king's penetrating gaze seemed like it was looking straight through me I gulped down the wafer and immediately felt the power of the Elixir rushing through me my pupils widened and I saw the king smile and wink at me before handing the cup back to the Head curate my cells practically buzzed with energy as I headed back to my seat I lifted my hands flexing

my fingers in Surprise I felt amazing the bruises and scrapes Nigel had given me faded completely and my lungs felt strong and clear the only thing that didn't disappear were the jagged red marks running across my palms and fingers every renewal for as long as I could remember I'd hoped the Scarlet thorns on my flesh would finally disappear but they never did even the colors and lights around me seemed brighter I watched the rest of the Village step up to the front of the chapel many of them seemed to be having similar experiences I was

frustrated my plan hadn't worked and felt guilty for swallowing The Elixir I'd wanted to save for my mother but hopefully today's strong dose would be enough to heal her sickness at least for a while the rest of the service went by quickly the most exciting part were the engagement announcements every year after the Choosing there was a flurry of couples announcing their upcoming nuptuals now that they were free to choose their own Partners the proclamations were followed by cheers and congratulations from the congregation followed by the inevitable discussion of wedding plans this year six couples

announced their engagement if things had gone differently I would have been among them I tucked my hand into my pocket and Slipped Trevor's gold ring onto my finger I peered around the congregation suddenly realizing I hadn't seen him today was he seriously skipping renewal after a night of hard drinking that was bound to be a miserable decision I hoped he'd still find me to say goodbye but after last night I wasn't counting on it at last the head curate clapped his hands three times and the room fell silent once more yes yes congratulations To you

all and as we all know there is one Among Us who deserves our congratulations as well Emily Shero please stand my cheeks flamed red as all eyes turned on me taking a deep breath I climbed to my feet I wiped my sweaty Palms down the simple blue dress I wore to every renewal in the presence of royalty I realized for the first time how thin and Faded it had become over the years Miss Shero has honored our congregation and our community by being Chosen in a few moments when we disperse she will be taken to

the Citadel of light to begin her new life we hope that she will do her very best to uphold her family name and honor our community he stared hard at me with knowing eyes and I had the good grace to look ashamed apparently my escapades Beyond the Wall hadn't gone so unnoticed after all oops taking my bowed head as a sign of acceptance he motioned for me to sit Down and I didn't hesitate to obey the curate placed his hands together and we all followed suit there would normally be a final prayer of continued protection

but King Richard cleared his throat and came to the center of the chapel again since I'm here there is one more thing I wanted to address with you a dangerous rumor that has been circulating other compounds Rebel s saving up their Elixir terrorists whispering in the shadows Plotting the destruction of our kingdom I know that could never happen here in all grave he said with a grim smile and I assure you these individuals have already been caught and dealt with severely the tone in his voice was chilling at first I couldn't understand why anyone would

save up their Elixir but then I realized I'd almost done the exact same thing for my mother a Tremor ran down my spine when I realized King Richard's announcement was actually a threat one citizen one drop those were the rules of renewal dissidents would be punished severely but Rebels and Terrior ists who would be stupid enough to go against the elite my pulse raced remembering the charred stairs of the stage after the explosion when the service ended I followed my family towards the front doors my mom came to a sudden halt right outside the entrance

and I nearly ran Into her the entire crowd had stopped moving craning their necks to stare at something I couldn't see I pushed my way to the front then froze as well my jaw dropped at the Long Black Limousine parked by the curb a man dressed in black from head to toe stepped from the driver's side of the limo he came over to the door in front of me and my mother shoved a bag of belongings into my hands she must have packed it this morning I stared at the black tinted Windows of the car

and swallowed my blood suddenly pumping through my veins I didn't know I'd be leaving right after the service I thought I had more time and wasn't Damian supposed to come pick me up himself I'll take that miss the driver said he plucked the bag from me before I had even registered his words speechless I watched as he opened the trunk and tucked my things inside then closed it again with a snap turning I stared at my mother I was sure all the Blood had drained from my face she smiled back at me and somehow I

knew she understood could this really be the last time I was going to see her her eyes filled with tears and I threw my arms around her pulling her close I let the familiar scent of lavender and Sage wash over me committing it to memory when she released me I wiped the tears from my eyes and bent to hug my brother and sister in turn you're the man of the house now I said locking eyes with Jamie All my hunting gear is yours stay safe take care of mother make sure she eats enough don't whine

or complain ever he nodded solemnly and I pinched his cheek I hugged Laura as well teasing her blonde hair then Amber found me and squeezed me into a tight hug friends forever right I said holding out my pinky finger right she said linking fingers with me at last it was time to go the driver opened the door to reveal a polished leather seat just the seat Looked more expensive than anything I had ever owned glancing over my shoulder I searched the crowd one last time for Trevor but couldn't see him then I lowered myself awkwardly

into the vehicle and stared at my surroundings everything was so shiny and black even though I was in my nicest dress I suddenly felt dirty and out of place I put my hand under my thighs and wondered how long it would take to get To the Citadel that's when I noticed I wasn't alone in the car King Richard sat across the car from me a good six feet away his face half hidden in Shadow His all black suit made him almost invisible at first but his thin fingers stood out like bones against the dark fabric

alone at last he said I hope you don't mind some company there was a twinkle of humor in his eyes but something else was lurking just behind it something that made my Skin crawl like all Elite he was handsome though close up I could see Fine Lines around his mouth and eyes and a streak of gray in his dark hair several heavy gold rings flashed in the darkness as as he folded his hands on his lap something about the Rippling of his fingers was mesmerizing and I found myself drawn to the movement where was Damian

would I be trapped in here with King Richard for The whole ride I didn't want to be rude so I swallowed my questions and gave him a polite smile he didn't speak again so I turned and looked out the window soaking up the last few glimpses of my childhood home anything to avoid the king's calculating gaze as we were leaving the compound I saw Trev at the edge of the gate still in the clothes he'd worn the night before his hair was disheveled and his clothes dirty but from the look on his Face I knew

his appearance was the last thing on his mind catching my eye he held up a half empty bottle of of rum I held my fingertips up to the window to wave goodbye but I wasn't sure he could even see me through the tinted glass and then just like that we were through the gates and the swiftly moving vehicle was swallowed up by the falling Ash chapter 6 we sat in awkward silence for a few minutes until the king cleared his Throat I can't tell you what it means to me to welcome you into my family

he said my son has been resistant to choose a bride it's nice to see he's finally growing up embracing his responsibility you must be very special to have caught his attention I look forward to getting to know you better I nodded but my throat was too dry try to respond he chuckled then hit a button next to his seat a panel slid open revealing a crystal Decanter and some glasses he poured me a drink and handed it to me it was Fizzy and sweet sweeter than anything I'd ever tasted I tried to relax but I

was sitting with the most powerful man in our kingdom King Richard was a legend practically the savior of humanity according to the renewal services and stories I'd grown up with I knew he wouldn't hurt me but I couldn't help feeling like prey stuck in a box after all Elites did feed on humans My body was screaming to run but there was nowhere to go I couldn't help wondering where Damian was it was customary for an elite to claim his own chosen why had he sent his father instead was he not that eager to see me

again as if reading my mind King Richard took out a black box with a dark satin bow and handed it to me he nodded to the box and I opened it inside was a stainless steel bracelet studded with Diamonds a wedding gift he said lifting the bracelet from the box and holding it out to to me he took my wrist gently his fingers were almost as cold as The Silver metal against my skin the jewelry clicked into place fastening securely by an invisible mechanism I realized I wouldn't be able to take it off by myself

my eyes widened as a small monitor appeared on the surface of the metal displaying Numbers 1.7% I asked reading the device every chosen gets a monitor the king said leaning back it will keep track of the elixir in your blood for your own safety in the compound even after a renewal human blood levels rarely reach 2% but in the Citadel you will have access to Greater amounts to assist with your training you need to at least be WR strong enough to keep up with your Elite mates so they don't have to worry about Accidentally hurting

you 10% is the legal limit for humans above that and a warning notification will be sent to our security teams if you have more than 30% elixir in your system you'll die painfully do you understand I gulped marveling at the tiny device I wondered how many drops of Elixir it would take to reach 10% five or even 10 I couldn't imagine what that would feel like hope flared in my chest the king just confirmed the Rumors I'd heard about having access to more Elixir maybe there was still a way I could save some and somehow

send it back to my mother if I invited Amber for a visit she could deliver it for me I just had to pass the trials King Richard reached past me and tapped on the glass motioning the driver to pull over once the vehicle slowed the King cracked the door and stepped outside you'll have to forgive me the King said I have important matters to deal with and I'll reach the Citadel faster on my own besides it's a chance to stretch my legs I nodded again feeling mute like my voice was stuck in my throat somehow

Ash fell onto the dark shoulders of his finely tailored suit and I recoiled instinctively remembering how badly my lungs had achd just this morning it won't hurt you I asked finally finding my voice the king smiled looking around him I just imagine that It's s he said with a wink but no it would take worse things than the ash to hurt me he closed the door and tapped on the glass again the driver continued on the road I turned around until I couldn't see the king anymore when I was alone again I took a deep

drink of the soda and ran my hands over the smooth leather the trepidation of being so close to the king faded and was soon replaced by ripples of excitement this was the first time I'd Ever been outside algrave I kept my nose glued to the window soaking in the landscape for half an hour we drove through winding roads guarded closely by Tall Pine trees sometimes I'd catch a glimpse of the Jagged Mountains that surrounded our Valley twice we passed narrow Bridges stretch ing impossibly Far Over rushing Rivers several small streams cut through algrave but the

water needed to be filtered before we could use it these Rivers were bigger than our entire compound the trees thinned and through the gray Ash I saw dim outlines of massive rectangular structures they were so large I couldn't get a proper sense of distance but they were big ger than anything I'd ever seen before architectural behemoths from before the culling they must have been centuries old before the ash when humans lived in the open abandoned vehicles lined the road there were so many of Them they'd been stacked in Rusty piles on either side of the

street like ramp Parts an hour into the trip I was surprised when we passed another car it was a silver vehicle with rounded edges I pressed my face against the glass and could just make out Mary in the back seat looking just as surprised as I was she gave a timid wave through the window and I smiled wondering if she could actually see me a few minutes later we passed another car this one was cherry Red Jessica flipped me off as we rode by I stuck my hung out at her after another 30 minutes we

entered the woods again and the road started climbing I got my first glimpse of the Citadel it was so large it looked like a mountain on the horizon with Jagged towers and beacons that seemed to cut through the ash like hot metal there was so much light it was surrounded by a Halo even in the daytime suddenly my attention was drawn to a figure standing by the side of the Road it was the first living creature I'd seen since we left the compound and his appearance out here in the wilderness was so jarring my brain

scrambled to make sense of it as I passed by him my breath caught in my throat it was the man with the beard and knitted cap I'd seen in all grave the one that had been talking with Trevor he looked right at me meeting my eyes through the tinted glass and then vanished I blinked and could just make Out his movement as he ran alongside the car moving faster than humanly possible was he an elite and what was he doing out here my questions evaporated when the limo was knocked to the side with such force

that the glass shattered I saw a flash of gray fur as the vehicle flipped upside down and then everything went black I woke up seconds later to the sound of screeching and the sound of metal Crumpling I felt like I was floating then realized I was suspended upside down by my seat belt through the broken glass I could see the driver out cold with blood dripping from a nasty cut on his forehead I struggled to reach the button to release the belt and tumbled to the roof of the car then I pulled myself out of

the broken window besides the dim ringing in my ears it was so quiet I could almost hear the flakes of Ash landing on the ground My fingers dug into the blanket of White Ash and dead grass carpeting the ground the ash I tore off off a long strip of fabric from the bottom of my dress and wrapped it around my face to cover my nose and mouth I tried to Rouse the driver but he was unresponsive I had to get help I stumbled through the ash until my feet hit the hard pavement of the road

but we were too close to the trees I couldn't see which direction the Citadel was Anymore and I had no idea how far maybe if I followed the road eventually I'd find it but I had no idea what was out there I'd never been this far from the compound before and I'd never been beyond the walls without my bow and arrow I was utterly defenseless then I heard someone scream I shook off my fear and ran through the ash until I found the silver vehicle Mary was curled up against the side her eyes wide with

shock The spray of blood that ran from her torso to her forehead chilled my veins but what I saw in the front seat was worse by far the remains of what must have been the driver were behind the wheel it looked like he'd been torn in half and his head and arms were completely missing Mary I said putting my Palms on her shoulders are you okay it took him she whimpered pointing to the driver I tore another strip of fabric from my dress and handed it to Her she stared at it blankly for the ash

I said when she didn't respond I took the strip and tied it around her head finally she seemed to understand clutching the fabric to her face and taking deep breaths that's when we heard the sounds of screeching metal Angry Red Sparks flew as the red sports car slid across the concrete one side battered in through the ash I saw the driver climb out of the car with a massive pistol in His hand I'd never seen a gun before they were illegal in the compound but I recognized them from books he stumbled to his feet just

as a massive shape hurled itself out of the trees it was nearly as large as the car the driver got two shots off and the Beast recoiled screaming in Rage it sounded like nails on a chalkboard I had to cover my ears against the sound the Beast growled and lunged at the driver's leg it picked the man up with its teeth and shook him Viciously until his head snapped at an unnatural angle and he stopped thrashing then the creature dragged the body into the woods pulling his leg with its massive teeth I heard Mary whimper

beside me and I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding one word was circling in my brain slag paaw they were real and more terrifying than I could have ever imagined they had the Shaggy fur and teeth of a wolf the powerful claws of a Bear but something about the way they moved was Almost disturbingly Human I'd never heard of them attacking during the day before adrenaline coursed through my veins but I didn't trust my legs to run plus I didn't know where to go I saw liquid leaking from the red car

and smelled gasoline it was just like the fuel we used for our purification engines then I saw movement in the back seat and a palm pounding on the inside of the window Jessica stay here I Shouted I ran towards the red car keeping my head down I reached the door and pulled the handle but it wouldn't budge the frame was bent out of shape and the door jammed Jessica's face appeared in the window and she pounded on the glass with her fists thick dark smoke was filling up the the cabin and I could smell something

burning I looked at my feet and realized I was standing in a puddle of gasoline which was rapidly spreading around the Car I heard a roar behind me it sent chills down my spine but it was coming from the woods I still had time but not much I had to get this door open I clenched my fists and felt the in my blood ignite like gunpowder against the adrenaline coursing through my veins in just a second I felt stronger than I ever had before nearly Invincible I reached down again for the door and this time

I tore the door open ripping apart the metal frame with my Bare hands and tossing the door to the side I grabbed Jessica's arms and pulled her out of the now flaming V vehicle we'd only taken a few steps when an explosion rocketed behind us I felt scorching Flames incinerate the back of my dress searing the fabric against my skin I shoved Jessica forward and landed on top of her then Mary appeared grabbing us both and tugging us back towards her until we were piled against the remains of Mary's vehicle she was sh Shouting something

but I couldn't hear anything except the ringing in my ears the pain in my back made my entire body feel like it was burning Jessica was shaking me screaming I couldn't hear what she was saying so I concentrated on her lips and her pointing finger just as a shadow blocked out the light I turned and blinked my eyes open trying to focus on the dark shape in front of me the long sharp teeth drooling saliva from its Loose jowls the dark gray fur that looked like burnt coals the glowing red eyes that seemed to see

into me and Pierce my heart I was too weak to even raise my arms so I just stared it down I even leaned forward slightly raising my own lips in a snarl practically daring it to attack it hesitated and I thought I saw a flicker of surprise in its intelligent eyes but then it flicked open its razor sharp claws and prepared to strike I closed my eyes with Mary's Scream ringing in my ears but instead of being ripped open I was hit by a splash of warm blood with so much force hor my head slammed

back against the car when I blinked my eyes open the monster had been sliced in half and the massive pieces of its torso slid apart to reveal Damian clutching a long silver sword his silhouette was outlined by the light behind him almost like he was radiating power he flicked the blood off his sword and smoothly returned it to Scabbard then bent down and lifted me into his arms chapter 7 I woke up in a bed with the softest sheets I'd ever felt the pillow under my head was like a cloud the satin caressing my face

then I remembered what happened and snapped awake I was in a large room with colorful wallpaper and gold filigree accenting the doors and windows my mattress was so large I could stretch Out my arms and legs without reaching the edge of the mattress and thick dark curtains hung like a canopy from the forpost bed the entire thing looked like it was carved from one piece of dark wood with ornamental Swirls and figures cut into the surface a beeping sound Drew my attention to my wrist and I saw the bracelet the king had given me it

now read 4% that's when I noticed I'd been changed into some kind of peach colored Night gown and I was completely healed a vanity desk with an oval mirror hugged the far wall surrounded by more of the engraved dark wood my reflection surprised me the bags under my eyes were gone I reached around to touch my back certain I'd feel my scorched skin I cringed remembering the feeling of the dress melting Into My Back In the Heat of the explosion but my skin was smoother and softer than I'd ever felt it and I felt No

pain a door opened and a woman came in with a stack of clothes her beige and white garments looked fresh and stiff almost like a uniform she was halfway to the dresser before she noticed me she was so surprised she jumped back dropping a few of the garments apologies mistress she said bowing her head as she scrambled to pick up the clothes Heavens you gave me a start she looked a few years older than me but younger than my mother and wore a white Bonnet that Pulled her dark curls away from her face what happened

I asked Mary and Jessica are they okay right as rain as far as I know you were the most injured Master Damian attended to you himself I frowned looking down at the practically transparent garment I was wearing Heavens no she laughed not like that he fed you the girls and I helped clean you up and change your clothes I'm sorry about the invasion of privacy but we had to get you out of those scraps you were Wearing they ReRe of gas and slag paaw blood it was stinking up the whole Wing I stared at her

trying to process all this information the girls and you I repeated slowly so at least Damien hadn't changed me himself for some reason the idea of being undressed by Daman made me feel more vulnerable than almost being eaten by a slag paaw I'm a net she said bowing again it's my honor and privilege to serve you you'll have several assistants Helping pour your bath or tidy up but I'm your lady's maid I've welcomed several girls into the Citadel I know it may seem overwhelming at first but you'll adjust in no time now let's get you

dressed shall we I stared at her my mouth nearly hanging open how could she be so at ease so cordial slag paaw were real and they just attacked a caravan of new chosen as far as I knew at least two of the drivers were dead why weren't there Alarms sounding and soldiers marching into battle I poured myself a glass of water from a pitcher by the bed trying to keep my hands steady dressed for what I asked after quenching my thirst the presentation ceremony Annette said holding up a stunning dark blue ball gown with large

hooped skirt that erupted into whirling Frills at the bottom you want me to wear that I asked frowning Damien picked it out for you she said tonight you'll be shown to the Royal Court it's important you look your best [ __ ] that's the first I'd heard of a presentation ceremony was I going to be forced to dress up and prance around for the rest of my life I didn't complain as she lifted my arms and helped tug off the peach night gown but when she tried to remove my bra I slapped her hand away

and covered myself with my other arm sorry dear I forgot you must be used to dressing yourself you'll find Undergarments in the bottom drawer of your closet pick something dark she turned away so I could rifle through the closet there were a dozen sets of luxurious lingerie in a variety of colors with black lace and straps that seemed entirely impractical yet made me blush by their frankness I tugged the underwear on quickly then let Anette lift the dress over my head and zip it up in the back it felt snug around my waist but Refreshingly

spacious lower down I was afraid I'd be tripping on the pet coats but my legs were pretty much unrestricted it's not as bad as I thought I admitted kicking my leg out a bit and watching the dress ruffle she rolled her eyes and pushed me in front of the mirror not bad a glad you approve I was stunned by my reflection she sat me down and pulled my hair back into a fancy bun pinning it up high with golden barrettes then she opened a drawer on The desk desk pulling out a tray of Cosmetics my

eyes lit up at the selection we had makeup in allg grave that Amber and I played with sometimes but nothing like this another girl came in to assist she had blonde curls that reminded me of my brother and was probably about his age Annette called her Claire and told her to do my nails while Annette applied dark eyes Shadow and L lengthened my eyelashes with mascara Claire quietly began Testing lip gloss until she found the perfect shade of pink there was a knock at the door and then a man came in he was tall and

lanky with golden curls and large green eyes I recognized him from the choosing ceremony Daman had called him Tobias he clapped his hands when he saw me and the women jumped back marvelous he declared motioning me to stand up and turn around you're perfect just one thing he flicked a small lever in the Wall and a panel swung open revealing a walk-in closet full of shoes there were enough shoes for every girl in algrave why would anybody need so many I murmured oh you sweet thing he said with a wink the shoes complete the outfit

he pulled out a pair of elegant black pumps and bent down to strap them to my feet did Damian pick those out too I asked Tobias smiled and glanced up at me from close up his face was practically Angelic Damen has never fully recognized the importance of presentation Tobias said he thinks he can solve every conflict with his sword when the truth is fashion is a much Keener weapon how could fashion be a weapon Tobias was strange for an elite but for some reason I didn't feel threatened by him after he strapped on my shoes

he Lifted Me Up gently so I could put my weight on the heels they made me taller than usual though I still barely came up to Tobias's shoulders can you walk he asked I took a few midst steps before strolling more confidently across the room you're unnatural he beamed just keep your chin straight and don't look down pick a point across the room and fix on it with your eyes it will help keep you steady I turned and practiced walking again I felt ridiculous focusing on something as simple as putting one foot in front of

the other but it was a welcome distraction One more thing I think Tobias said heading to my closet he pulled out an elegant pair of long black gloves that reach up to my elbows I tried them on turning in the mirror I'm not sure how I felt about them but at least they covered the marks on my hands I was self-conscious enough as it was in these new clothes I didn't need to draw more attention to myself when I turned again Tobias was just leaving the room through the side exit Annette and Claire motioned me

towards the large door at the far end of the room on each side of the threshold then Annette reached and swung the door open Damen stood on the other side with his back to the door he turned around appraising me with his eyes I'd only caught a glimpse of him this morning when he killed the slag p and I realized my memory didn't do him Justice he was far more handsome than I remembered he wore an all black suit That screamed expensive with a dark blue tie that matched my dress it's nice to see you

again miss Shero he said his Rich voice felt like velvet in my ears I hesitated for a moment as he reached out hand towards me but finally I took a deep breath and stepped forward call me Emily I said putting my hand in his his lips curved up in a tiny amused smile he repeated the name thoughtfully dropping the syllables like he was savoring them I realized it was The first time he'd ever said my name the gentle way he said it sent a warmth through my body I linked my arm in his and he

led me down an arched hallway overlooking a center Courtyard full of rose bushes the floral scent was wonderful even up here on the third floor we crossed a narrow stone bridge over one of the natural streams that cut through the city in the distance I could see several more hundreds of feet high crisscrossing between the ground gravity Defying pillars of the Citadel some of them looked like natural rock like melted wax others were made of glass and steel I couldn't believe a place like this actually existed as the sun set the lights of the city

began to Glow until they outshone the Stars we reached a spot overlooking the lower layers of the Citadel with a view over the mazike walls that surrounded the settlement the height made me dizzy I'd never been up this High before the sky was turning a deep purple casting Long Shadows through the dark pine trees below us I realized suddenly there was no Ash here even though we were outside the air tasted crisp and cool I inhaled deeply smelling scents of flowers and spices from a market down below like it Daman said I'd spent the last

few days thinking about Damen Hartman and now there he was escorting me to some kind of ball it should have been a dream come true and Yet he'd barely said two words to me since I got here and he always seemed slightly annoyed like he had better things to be doing than show me around so um I guess I should thank you I said not looking at him you know for saving me from Nigel I bit my lip twice don't mention it he said it casually but with a sharp edge that sounded almost like a

warning he was acting like it was no big deal like he would have done it for Anyone but not only did he save my life in the woods he'd chosen me we were supposed to get married and I couldn't even tell whether he liked me and for what happened today I added I guess that was the third time you've saved me how did you find us anyway daman's sharp eyes flicked down to the steel bracelet his father had given me that does more than monitor the level of elixir in your blood he said there's also

a tracking chip inside so we know where you are my Father insisted on picking you up himself Damen said there was an apology in his eyes but not on his lips he can be very persuasive but I was mon during your journey I left the Citadel as soon as you stopped moving I shuddered remembering the terrifying moment when the limo had been flipped through the air the amount of force it must have taken to lift a car like that Daman stopped in front of me and bent down to Meet my eyes his blue eyes took

my breath away they were what I imagined the sky used to look like before they were scorched by the ash listen to me he said the slag paaw cannot hurt you inside the Citadel you're perfectly safe here do you understand I nodded and forced a smile I hated being treated like some fragile thing that needed protection I lifted my chin and stepped brazenly forward so are we going to do this or what I asked Casting a teasing smile over my shoulder he was at my side in an instant my pulse raced as he threaded his

fingers through mine you certainly have a knack for getting yourself in trouble Miss Shero yeah I suppose I do for a long moment he was silent and the duration bled into awkwardness finally he dropped my hand and stood a little further away from me I wouldn't recommend continuing that behavior in the palace he said the Fortress walls will keep the Slag paaw out but that's not an invitation to be Reckless with that chilling piece of advice ringing in my ears Damian ushered me forward down a side alley and over another bridge I was completely turned

around as we went through some kind of tunnel then suddenly emerged onto a huge platform it was lined with trees but it was so wide and flat the opposite side faded into the distance in the center of the platform was an enormous slice into The stones revealing a gushing natural River and forming a crashing waterfall just at the top of the waterfall was a twinkling palace with more lights than anything else in the city its collection of tapered pillars and jeweled domes lit up the sky a massive set of sweeping stairs were cut into the

bare rock on both sides crossing the chests of two giant sculptures carved into the Cliff face supporting the tremendous weight of the Platform with their shoulders the waterfall gushed between them we have to climb up that I asked frowning I thought we were going to a party not a hiking trip my new shoes were already cutting into my ankles and I didn't relish the idea of climbing up all those stairs in the dark there is a faster way up Damian said this time there was a hint of a smile in his eyes why do I

get the feeling I'm not going to like the next words out of your mouth We jump he said nodding at the platform above us it was at least 200 ft High my heart started pounding just thinking about it I didn't know if he was serious or making fun of me or what if he was just testing me to see how tough I was fine with me I said far more boldly than I felt he stepped closer and wrapped his hands around my waist he was suddenly way too close holding my body firmly against his he

raised a questioning eyebrow I gulped and nodded grabbing his Shirt then we shot into the sky my dress fluttered in the wind and then opened up like an umbrella when we started descending Daman landed first then let me down slowly until my feet touched the ground when he let go I was breathless my eyes wide from excitement that was amazing I grinned it's just like flying glad you liked it now if you don't mind I think we're late he nodded towards the palace up close I could see the entire ire building was Covered in gleaming

marble tiles inlaid with golden ornamentation that reflected the glowing lights pointed at it a long red carpet ran from the massive front doors to the edge of the platform then it was a straight drop to the waterfall far below a dozen Royal Guards were positioned on either side of the carpet so still I thought they were statues at first like the ones in our compound they were wearing silver jackets with black pants and a protective mesh that hid Half their faces these ones however also wore a wide red band around their arm with the Royal

emblem and body armor under their uniforms as Damian and I walked casually between them their gaze never flickered we entered into the largest room I'd ever seen the high ceilings were covered in Fresco and golden accents ran between the enormous marble stones in the floor I had to Shield my eyes from the lights they were brighter than anything I'd Seen before Illuminating every inch of the room as bright as daylight a few of the men in town had flashlights and the street lights used electric bulbs but otherwise electricity was metered and expensive unnecessary power usage

was seen as wasteful even potentially damaging to the purification engines but here the lack of restraint was almost conspicuous they must have an unlimited supply of Power some kind of band with stringed instruments played music that made my heart sing and people were already dancing in the center of the floor at the far end of of the palace was a stage surrounded by white round tables each table could fit 12 chairs and had an elaborate flower display in the center surrounded by white candles took you long enough said Tobias approaching us with a friendly smile

he was with a woman in a stunning black dress and a Pearl necklace she was nearly as tall as Tobias with long dark hair and an Elegance I envied we took the long route Damen grinned the girl rolled her eyes at him don't tell me you jumped she said poor thing Tobias did that to me at my presentation I nearly had a heart attack she still hasn't forgiven me for it Tobias smiled wickedly allow me to introduce my wife Penelope I held out my hand but Penelope reached out and grabbed me squeezing me Into a

hug I'm so happy you're here she said we've been trying to get Damian to choose a girl for years just so I have someone to hang out with while the boys are busy how long have you two been together I asked hoping I was asking the right question 5 years she said holding out her hand to show off her ring I wondered if that included the one-month trial but I was too embarrassed to ask let's sit Damian said motioning toward the tables we picked one and were soon Joined by several other couples and a handful

of Elites that appeared to be single everyone was so dressed up it was a little hard to tell them apart at first mostly the elites had a calm certainty about them and a restrained power they did everything in precise simple movements it was easier by far to recog recognized the other chosen by their wide eyed expressions and open mouths I wonder if I looked as impressed as they did my mouth watered as the First course of the meal was served waiters in Red Coats twirled wide silver plates and removed the lids with a flourish revealing

strange foods I'd never seen before the duck Venison and soup I recognized but there were also alien look creatures with massive Claws and something that looked like two leaves stuck together oysters Penelope said and lobster my compound is right on the ocean we catch them with traps and Nets she showed me how to crack them Open to reach the meat inside I pulled off my gloves so I could better eat with my bare fingers I saw her eyes slide to the dark marks on my wrists and fingers but she didn't say anything there're supposed to

be aphrodisiacs Penelope whispered in my ear giggling I didn't know what the word meant I raised my eyebrow and she explained it's supposed to make you more eager for the bedroom she winked and I grasped her meaning my brow suddenly Prickled with sweat and I squeezed my hands under the table was that supposed to happen tonight I'd assume intimate contact would be restricted to after the trial period after the formal wedding ceremony but I realized nobody had told me so specifically I glanced up at Daman and he smiled at me warmly he reached over and

poured me a glass of wine I smiled and took a tiny sip he was handsome of course but I wasn't sure I was ready to Be with him in that way was it expected of me did I have a choice at that moment spotlights pointed towards the stage and I saw King Richard Ascend some kind of Podium on either side of him large screens zoomed in showing a closeup of his face somehow his words were spelled out on the wall behind him as he spoke tonight is the opportunity to welcome the new chosen into our

community I hope everyone is having fun there were cheers from the Crowd there were at least a 100 Elite in the room and I knew these weren't even all Penelope told me these were just the noble families and royalty I wondered how many Elite there were in total there were 13 chosen this year I'd like to invite them to the stage now a few few girls stood up immediately others like me waited to be prompted Tobias and penelopy clapped their hands and smiled at me but it wasn't until Daman stood up and pulled My chair

out for me that my legs started heading towards the stage in my peripheral vision I saw Mary coming towards me from the side I almost didn't recognize her at first she was wearing a lacy pink dress that stood stood out like a bright flower amongst the forest of dark suits and dresses that the elite seemed to prefer she'd always worn her bangs short and her brown hair had been trimmed to just above her shoulders she smiled at me and I returned the gesture It was nice to have someone else from allg grave I could talk

with she was probably feeling as alone and isolated as I was she followed up the stairs behind me and we got in line behind the other girls each chosen seemed to have a more elaborate dress I was suddenly grateful that mine while luxurious was relatively simple and understated my jaw dropped when I saw Jessica in a bright yellow dress with a matching hat that looked both ridiculous And stunning at the same time she stroe confidently forward at my side Mary nudged my arm and raised an eyebrow she looks like a block of cheese Mary whispered

or a banana I shot back smiling Mary and I we going to get along just fine once we were all lined up the king continued for the last 17 years he said pacing before us you've enjoyed the protection and technological advances of of living in the compounds safe havens built for humans to thrive without Worrying about the poisonous Ash of the wastelands or the beasts who roam outside the gates now you have been selected to fulfill your sacred Duty and represent your communities by joining with an elite in a bond of matrimony however while you

have taken the first step and secured one of the highest honors your partnership is not yet set in stone over the next few weeks you will attend classes to learn how to be a better citizen of the Citadel and a Loyal consort to your mates I know that you will make your compounds proud this year marks the 998th year The Chosen have been selected for almost almost a century we have had unparalleled peace and prosperity since the Covenant between our two races was first formed trust that even if you don't understand everything we do in

the Citadel there are reasons for how things are learn our ways quickly serve your new Masters and you will be invited to Stay among us as full citizens what more thing the king said softly this time there are some even Within These Walls who do not support our mission who questions our laws and way of life Traders and Rebels hiding in the shadows plotting our downfall today there was even an attack on several chosen as they were heading towards the Citadel there were murmurs from the crowd even outrage I was surprised not everyone had Heard

of the attack yet luckily my own son was keeping a close eye on his Chosen and arrived in time to save the lives of all three girls after their drivers were killed fear not the king said we will discover the parties responsible for these attacks and they will be punished harshly whether human or Elite he let the last few words sink in I furled my brow in confusion we were attacked by slag paaw not Rebels Certainly not Elite and why would Elite attack the chosen then I remembered the bearded man I'd seen just before the

attack what was he doing out in the woods all alone was he involved somehow finally the king said on a more personal matter I'd like to raise a toast to my son Damian I had always hoped he'd embrace the Covenant and set a good example by choosing a human consort instead he has resisted his duty For nearly a century so I'd like to raise a toast to Damian and the first and only girl to catch his interest Emily Shero a spotlight focused on me and I was blinded by the heat and light I squinted then

raised my hand above my eyes there were cheers and Applause along with quite a bit of laughter when my eyes adjusted I could make out Daman but he was frowning and looking at the table even as Elite from other tables Came over to slap him on the back and congratulate him just as the noise was dying down I heard someone call out from the back what's wrong with her hands this Unleashed a new round of laughter my eyes focused on a darkhaired girl in a black dress practically lounging in Nigel's lap her cheeks were flushed

with wine was she a chosen too if so why wasn't she on stage my cheeks flushed red as I Realized I'd left my gloves at the table after eating the spotlight showed off my marks in Stark detail and somewhere a camera zoomed in close feeding a live video to the massive screens behind us so that everybody could see the jagged marks on my hands my deformity I crossed my arms hiding my marks beneath my arms blood roared in my ears I didn't even hear the king dismiss us and stood there stupidly until Jessica pushed me

from the other side Shoving me towards the side stairs move it freak she hissed I nearly stumbled down the stairs fighting to keep the tears out of my eyes I I could already feel the wet mascara and eyeliner once at my table I sank into my seat without making eye contact with anyone and immediately reached for my gloves before I could pull them on however Damian's hand lashed out and jerked them away the gesture surprised me was he angry at me or Worse Embarrassed I looked around the room and caught Nigel glaring at me I

shifted until I was facing away from him but the way my scalp and neck tingled I could still feel him watching me Damian was wrong the walls might keep out the slag paaw but I had a feeling there were far more dangerous things inside the Citadel after the presentation dinner we walked home inside silence Daman must have taken me the long way the first time to show me the Lookout Point for a full view of the Citadel the way home was much shorter we passed over two of the covered bridges connecting the enormous towers of

the main Fortress and then we were back in the building where we'd started Damian was pensive and Silent next to me which made me nervous was he embarrassed by me now that I'd revealed myself to the other Elite in the Citadel was he regretting his choice so soon I also couldn't forget about what Penelope had said at dinner would Damian expect us to sleep together tonight is that why he was walking me home although I knew eventually it would be expected of me I wasn't eager to share my bed with a total stranger at the

door I panicked was this my bedroom or was it his I should have asked earlier do all the chosen live in this building I asked trying to get out the truth this whole apartment is yours During the trial period he said I'll be staying in the main Palace and most of the elite have a family home somewhere within the Citadel I breathed a sigh relief so at least we didn't have to live together not yet well I guess I should get out of this dress I said I blushed when I realized how it sounded almost

like an invitation and go to sleep I added quickly I'm exhausted he nodded but frowned like There was something else he wanted to say I stepped inside holding the door then Damen leaned in close and my heart pounded I thought he was going to kiss me my lips parted involuntarily and I waited for him to close the distance between us instead he whispered never hide who you are then he handed me my gloves and walked away chapter 8 when Claire woke me the next morning a Breakfast tray was already waiting near the window next to

a steaming cup of coffee I inhaled the scent gratefully then took a sip it was much stronger than what I was used to the bitterness almost overwhelming Claire added some fresh flowers to the vase at the window while I ate pretty I said thank you she nodded and gave a nervous bow I opened the window and leaned out my heart racing as I took in the drop in the distance I Could see the Dark Forest the tops of pine trees and distant mountains somewhere behind those Hills lay algrave the only home I'd ever known but

I wasn't homesick directly below me was a dizzying fall to a small courtyard with stairs and passageways and tunnels cutting in every direction and citizens going about their business it was already more exciting than anything I'd seen in algrave I noticed again the surprising Lack of Ash and took a deep breath of the fresh air then I glanced at the metal bracelet on my wrist I'd gotten in the habit of checking it the numbers had been dropping since yesterday afternoon when you're done eating put these on Annette said coming into the room and chasing Claire

away she placed a bundle of simple gray clothing on the bed they looked soft and comfortable I practically moaned when I pulled on the Pants and hooded sweatshirt they were lightweight and soft against my skin I know they aren't fancy Annette said but the chosen all wear the same uniforms during training they're perfect I said can I wear these all the time Annette's jaw practically dropped and I saw Claire bite back a grin absolutely not Annette said after training you'll come right back here and put on something more decent she gestured towards the dozens of

dresses in the closet now hurry up You don't want to be late on your first day I finished the scrambled eggs and toast and washed it down with the strong coffee then I wiped my mouth on my sleeve Claire volunteered to bring me to class I followed her down the hall trying to get a better sense of my bearings we went down long passages and up a flight of stairs before emerging in a central Courtyard large sections of the walls had been replaced with thick glass so we Had a breathtaking panoramic view of the Citadel

from the inside looking out the top of the building was open and we could see the gray clouds above us the floor was covered in polished wood that seemed almost warm beneath my feet several thin mattresses covered in green leather extended over the hardwood in each Corner was a tall rack displaying a variety of dangerous looking weapons Claire nodded and left with another bow Disappearing the way she came I stood awkwardly for a moment as the other girls gawked at my wrists then I saw Mary she smiled when she saw me and I joined her

near the back of the room I thought we were here to learn she said gesturing at the weapons I Shrugged my shoulders just as a tall woman stroe into the room she wore a simple uniform like ours pants and a tunic with a column of thick buttons but hers were solid white whereas ours were dull gray I would have guessed she was Elite except for the metal bracelet on her wrist she clapped her hands to get our attention and gestured to the largest mat in the center of the room I took a seat next to

Mary then looked around as the other chosen joined the Circle my eyes found Jessica immediately she seemed to have already gathered a new group of accompli you can call me master svaboda the teacher said clasping her hands Behind her back for the next four weeks I will be helping to transform you into self-sufficient citizens of the Citadel we'll be learning culture and etiquette dance combat and fencing they never said anything about fighting one girl said behind me raising her hand as she spoke you are here to fulfill the Covenant Master faota said so your husband

always has blood nearby and to remind the elite what being human is like however we learn combat for two reasons Master Faota said first because to keep up with your Elite husbands you'll need to be strong Supple and resilient in both mind and body you will learn culture and history so that you won't barrage your companion with innan questions you will learn dance to gain Grace and Poise combat will strengthen your muscles and maintain your figure however there is another reason why it's so important you will never be as strong as An elite they will

always see you as weak inferior which can make you a dangerous liability on occasion it is possible that your new husbands might want to take a trip to show you more of the Kingdom or accompany you back to your compound to visit your own family in the event of an attack a momentary distraction could prove fatal for both of you targeting The Chosen could also be a way of hurting an individual Elite And leaves them open to attack even betrayal for this reason many Elites give their chosen added rations of Elixir to make them stronger

and faster humans in the Citadel follow the rules of renewal a single drop per week enough to ward off sickness and disease chosen as consort SS of the elite are to be elevated above Commons in all manners capable at the very least of Defending themselves so their husbands don't have to worry about them against all threats I gulped remembering the rancid breath of the slag paaw I hoped she wasn't saying I'd have to fight one of those Master SoDo went to a large stainless steel Vault built built into the wall and pressed some kind of

numbered key code the door opened releasing white Vapor she reached in and pulled out a single vial of Elixir more than I'd ever seen in the same place there was more than enough there to heal my mom completely my pulse jumped at the Thought Master svaboda poured Elixir into a tiny crystal glass then SI it quickly her bracelet beeped and we watched the monitor climb 3% then 5% then 7% there were murmurs from the other girls I'd never seen anyone drink so much before Master soda did a quick Sprint then turned and performed a twisting

backflip Landing right in front of the weapon shelf she grabbed two daggers and flung them them towards the Opposite side of the room they smacked into a Target on the far wall with remarkable accuracy but she wasn't finished as soon as the daggers left her hand she picked up what looked like a massive Hammer the end was a solid block of metal larger than her head yet she swung it around easily she took a running jump Defying Gravity and reaching twice her height into the air hair and slammed the hammer into a large metal plaque

fixed to the Wall the force of her swing made the ground tremble beneath us she grinned at us before continuing her lesson too much elixer however can be dangerous you'll be faster and stronger than you've ever been before but if you lose control you could hurt yourself or others that's why all chosen wear the bracelets to measure blood levels try to keep them below 10% more than that and the Elixir will affect your critical thinking above 15% and you may exhibit symptoms of mania insomnia feelings of invulnerability increased sexual desire Euphoria grandiose delusions and paranoid

rage this can make you rash and prone to incident the legal limit for Commons is 2% chosen will have access to more Elixir but for your own safety at 20% the system will send your location to our security Center and a team will be sent to collect you what happens if we Drink too much Mary asked the elixir will feed off your own blood cells and then burn out as you expel energy at lower levels the healing benefits of The Elixir will regenerate fresh blood once you pass 30% The Elixir in your system will consume

blood faster than it can be regenerated draining your body of living cells and you will die there was a long pause as we reflected on this only one person raised their hand is that how one becomes Elite Jessica asked we'll save That lesson for another time Master saboda said with a frown this week you'll practice basic defensive stances you will train and learn quickly The Elixir will allow you to learn much faster than you would normally without burning out it will also no heal injuries now pair up I partnered with Mary and we spent the

next hour learning stretches and warm-up activities I couldn't keep my eyes away from the weapons There Was An Elegant Curved bow I was desperate to get my hands on with barbed arrows it was the only thing I knew how to use I'd practiced throwing my father's hunting knife but could only get it to stick into a tree half the time and master spoda had thrown the daggers across the whole room easily twice my best distance I've never seen anyone move like that I said to Mary I hadn't either until we were Attacked by the slag

paaw she whispered back what are you talking about I asked then I remembered the mysterious bearded man had she seen him too just before Jessica's car exploded Mary said fixing me with her wide eyes I saw you what you did you moved like them you saved her it was renewal I said I must have still had some elixir in my system one drop wouldn't have let you move as fast as you did or rip off that Car door we had an unannounced visitor King Richard came to our ceremony he delivered the Elixir himself I said

gesturing towards my wrist Mary's eyes widened I don't know it must have been stronger or something straight from the source you know we finished stretching and master faota made us Sprint back and forth across the gymnasium after 20 laps of that we had to carry large blocks of Stone from a pile on one end of the room to a pile on The other I thought I was in reasonably good shape but by the end of class my legs and arms felt like jelly and my lightweight outfit was Dripping with sweat the other girls looked in

even worse shape two girls gave up completely and sank against the wall breathing deeply I was surprised Master faota didn't yell at them to keep moving she kept checking our wristbands and when mine finally dropped to zero she nodded at me and pointed to A water cooler and a stack of cups I drank the liquid greedily spilling down the front of my shirt physical activity will drain the amount of elixir in your system she said the greater the physical effort the more Elixir you'll use which is why if you're in excellent Health otherwise a smaller

amount of Elixir will last longer and have greater effect she raised the vial of Elixir again and this time dipped an eye dropper into the glass tube she Added two drops of the dark liquid into short glasses and we watched the dark liquid unfurl into the water turning it red elixir after a workout will help you recover faster so we can spend more time training you'll get two drops a day from now on and more after the first week this amount should be enough to help you heal quickly but you probably won't notice any significant

effects until we begin consuming more I looked at Mary and raised my eyebrows two drops a day That was 14 a week more Elixir than I usually got in 3 months I waited as the other girls pushed forward to grab a glass then got in the back of the line Jessica was one of the first Mary handed me a glass and we drank it together my aching muscles which were screaming in pain moments ago relaxed instantly I was used to the effects of renewal but never after such a strenuous workout I thought class was over

but I was wrong Master spoda had us partner up Again and taught us some basic combat three common frontal attacks and how to block them we practiced them slowly at first making sure our stance was right then got into a repetitive Rhythm as we felt more confident the moves got faster Master sabota added in a kick followed by a pole and sweep move that threw our partners to the ground I saw Mary smile after blocking my flurry of attacks and realized I had a grin on my own face as well I felt the Jarring contact

as I blocked her punches and chops with my forearms but they didn't hurt I couldn't feel anything other than exhilaration this was way more fun than I thought it was going to be several hours flew by and I was surprised when Master saota clapped her hands together and ended class the light was much dimmer and I looked outside in Surprise the city around us through the large glass panes was painted in a soft Glowing Half Light a kind of visible dark darkness that converged in long gray Shadows across the courtyard below I watched Master saboda

put away the unused Elixir and lock the storage case fighting back a sense of longing if I could get some and send it back to my mother she'd be healed instantly I tried to formulate some kind of plan but the risk of getting caught was too great when I came out of the classroom into the Hall Claire was there Waiting for me but she was backed into a corner and looked frightened then I saw Nigel my blood was still pumping with Elixir and anger flooded through my body what the hell did you do to her

I asked narrowing my eyes Nigel smirked and held his hands up in defense nothing she wasn't asking for he said I grabbed Claire's hand and pulled her towards me but our way was blocked by another Elite I recognized him from the meadow what were they even Doing here you remember Thomas of course Nigel asked my skin crawled just being close to them again the other girls streamed past us but I felt trapped by Nigel's gaze almost like my feet feet were rooted to the floor you can't hurt me I said more bravely than I felt

Damian chose me I'm his touch me and I'm sure he'll think of a creative way to punish you maybe for now he leared but do you really think he cares about you you don't mean anything to him he was Just trying to spoil my fun why do you think he passed on you at the choosing ceremony he'll get bored of being your champion and send you back a ruined woman after that you'll be all mine Claire's eyes widened apparently she hadn't heard a full account of my choosing ceremony just then Jessica came out of the

practice room she looked startled to see us all but pushed past it you came to pick me up she said flashing Thomas a Dazzling smile and wrapping her arms around him she planted a wet kiss on his cheek what can I say he grinned it is almost dinner time after all and I invited Nigel to eat with us he let one hand drop and I saw him squeeze Jessica's butt Jessica's face paled but she recovered quickly stop she said playfully punching him you're too naughty besides I'm all sweaty class was brutal I'll bet you kicked

everyone's ass Thomas said why don't you two show Us what you learned Nigel said nodding towards me there was Hunger in his eyes an eagerness that turned my blood cold maybe another time I said Damen is waiting there was a long pause but finally Nigel nodded and Thomas stepped aside with a flourish that was almost a mock bow Claire and I practically sprinted through the mazike passageways and floating bridges of the Citadel back to our apartment chapter 9 after I got back to my room I took a shower and changed into some comfortable clothes I

was about to collapse on the bed when there was a knock on the door I hesitated before opening who is it I asked it's Daman came the voice on the other side I thought you might like some dinner I opened the door a crack expecting him to hand me a plate of food or something he was wearing a NIC looking jacket and a crisp white shirt with some kind of tie his leather shoes Looked freshly polished and he'd even combed his hair I didn't think he could get any more handsome but he cleaned up good

I meanwhile was wearing sweats and my hair was still wrapped up in a towel you might want to put on something a little more well more he said his eyes sparking ING with Amusement my cheeks flushed give me a second I said I felt stupid having a net dress me yesterday but now I wished she or Claire were around I had a dozen fancy dresses and No idea what to wear finally I picked out a simple black dress that was elegant without being flashy or revealing the embroidered collar went all the way up to my

neck I pulled my hair back into a quick ponytail and pinched my cheeks surprisingly I didn't look half bad even after the excruciating workout it must be the extra elixir in my veins I pulled on a lightweight jacket and closed the door behind me where are we going I asked I Thought you might want to see where I live Damen said I've prepared some food already my eyes lit up I wasn't looking forward to going out in public anyway dinner at home sounded perfect a small part of me was nervous about being alone with Damian

but a larger part was thrilled that he even wanted to spend time with me especially after what Nigel had told me earlier we were still basically strangers even though we might be Getting married in a few weeks being chosen had always seemed So Glamorous but I realized now the hard part came afterwards Damian's house if you could call it that was only a few minutes away we passed across an outdoor Bridge covered and lined with statues of people I didn't recognize and turned right then the building was in front of us we were in one

of the old parts of the Citadel near the center the rectangular building Had four round towers that Rose in height like stairsteps Towards the Sky each Tower was crowned with a bright torch of yellow Flame the whole structure was built on the edge of a massive Boulder cutting into the Fortress walls the front door was a drawbridge that connected with a thin Bridge across a deep crack in the B Bedrock we were so high up the Mist obscured the trees far below us you grew up here I asked hesitating at the far End of the

bridge and peering down Into the Depths beneath not exactly Damian said I grew up in the before just a regular boy going to school playing soccer my father and I moved here after we became a eats after the calling when we were being hunted by humans my eyes widened Daman had never told me so much about himself before he'd been around since the before I'd heard that some of the elite Were that old but I thought it was just a rumor and your mother I asked daman's face contorted and there was a flash of anger

and an emotion couldn't read she didn't make it he said finally he reached for my hand and held it as we crossed the bridge his hands were cold but gentle once inside he took my coat and opened the door to a wide room with arched ceilings massive chandeliers hung from Chains over a long dining table two Arrangements of Jasmine filled the otherwise empty space Damen pulled out a chair for me and sat at the far end of the table he'd barely taken his seat when a side door opened and several servants entered with plates of

food they put all the plates near me and filled my glass with wine then disappeared back into the kitchen aren't you going to eat anything I asked looking over at Damian's empty plate and Glass I've already eaten he said go ahead without me now that all this delicious food was in front of me I was hungry I piled my plate with meatloaf potatoes and gravy and peas there was also a whole roasted chicken some kind of bone broth soup and a handful of dishes I didn't even recognize it was a little creepy that Daman was

just watching me eat I felt stupid for not knowing more about the elites did they even eat food or only Human blood if so what or who had he eaten earlier part of me felt insulted after all Damian chose me as his consort didn't that mean he was supposed to feed on me wasn't that what I was here for how are you enjoying the Citadel so far Damen asked at least he was finally breaking the silence I cringed each time my silver utensils clashed against the dishes and the sound carried in the voluminous room it's

great I mumbled with my mouth Full I mean I've only been here a day it's kind of overwhelming the food though the food is amazing I'm glad you like it he said is this all for me I frowned as the servants brought three more dishes out fish steamed brussel sprouts with garlic and some kind of spicy curry with rice this much food could have fed my whole family at home and I would have invited Trev and Amber over for dinner as well you don't need to finish it Damian said Folding his fingers together on the

table he looked ridiculously dashing against the background of the room tapestries hung behind him showing some kind of battle scene and a large fireplace with an engraved mantle housed a glowing fire the light reflected off the Golden frames of two large oil paintings without piercing the Dark Shadows of the portraits looking down at us I just thought you might want to taste some new dishes once you find out What you like the cooks can make it for you whenever you want you mean you didn't cook this yourself I teased he smiled and raised an eyebrow

would you like me to cook for you you have important things to do I said looking down at my plate you're important he said to me I bit my lip wondering if I'd misheard him or if he was going to qualify that statement somehow instead he just let it hang in The open it felt like he' just confessed something intimate somehow the space between us warmed even though he was on the far end of the massive table a private dinner now this at the compound I'd always thought being chosen was a compromise the unpleasant experience

of sharing our blood with an elite in exchange for a comfortable life in the Citadel of Lights now that I was here however letting Damian feed on me didn't seem like the worst thing in the world The thought of him gripping me against his body sinking his teeth into my neck filled me with emotions I'd never felt before which kind of pissed me off short sure he was charming and handsome right now but he wasn't always sometimes he seemed like a total jerk he rarely smiled and seemed to be slightly annoyed with almost everything like

life had let him down somewhere and he'd never quite recovered plus I hated thinking that Trevor was right and his Words repeated in my ears you want to be that blood sucker mate don't you I denied it at the time but now my body was rebelling against me thinking about Trevor made me think about home which made me feel guilty eating all this food in a private Mansion being waited on by servants I wondered what would happen with all the extra food I couldn't eat that had been cooked for my pleasure thrown away probably I

bet it was all from the Compounds we spent months growing food just to have the elites throw it away what's wrong Damen asked [ __ ] could he read me that easily I'd have to be more careful with my emotions nothing I said it's just all this I'm not used to it I guess I'm a little homesick it was close enough to the truth and Damen seemed to buy it would you like to write them a letter I can have someone deliver it tomorrow my jaw went slack With surprise people sent letters between the compounds

with Traders but it usually took weeks I nodded and he stood up and walked towards me then if you're finished let me show you around I followed him through and another door to the side of the dining hall which led through a gallery full of paintings and then across a tiled floor with a sweeping staircase we walked past it towards a Door on the other side of the hall what's upstairs I asked running my hand over the smooth banister the bedrooms Damen said I'm not sure you need to see those tonight unless you have some

suggestion I blushed he seemed to enjoy teasing me he pushed open the oak door into a wide library with tall ceilings the walls were lined with tall bookcases filled with hundreds of books there were so many shelves a ladder had been built Into the wall to reach them in the center of the room was a large oak desk with a smooth surface and handcarved whirls in the sturdy legs behind it were two leather chairs with red padding on either side of the room were large bay windows several comfortable looking chairs and couches were tucked into

nooks and Corners along with an antique grandfather clock can this be my room I asked I'm usually in here studying or Writing correspondence for my father but you're welcome to join me anytime time I'll leave the doors unlocked if you want to drop by as long as you don't remove any of the books we furnished the compounds with libraries but the inventory is selective there are books in my library that could be upsetting to humans too much knowledge can be dangerous I nodded though I didn't understand what he meant how could books be dangerous I'd

spent most of my Childhood in all Graves toown Library I probably read every single book three times but it was nothing like this I ran my fingers over the smooth leather bindings and frayed canvas edges as far as I knew books weren't printed anymore though I had seen small educational pamphlets in the compound Damen went to the desk and pulled out a drawer filled with stacks of paper and envelopes then he pulled out the chair For me he sat on a large green couch reading a book while I wrote a note to my mother it

had only been a couple days so I didn't have a lot to tell her but I wanted her to know I was okay and thinking about her I sent a note to Amber as well because she'd kill me if I had the opportunity to write but didn't I was tempted to tell her a lot more but I hesitated to put anything important in the letter I glanced over at Daman who seemed absorbed in his book Would he read these later what about the messenger I thought about writing to Trevor but I wasn't sure what to

say I wanted to ask him about the man he'd been talking to in algrave but something about their encounter made me hesitate it was weird I'd seen him in the woods and that he'd moved so fast if he was human where did he get so much elixir something Trev said stuck with me there are other ways to get blood from An elite but we were attacked by slag paaw not Rebels I didn't want to bring it up with Damian in case I accidentally got Trevor in trouble I could only hope he wasn't involved in something

stupid instead I just added a line to Amber's message to watch out for him when I finished Damian poured red wax across the seal and stamped it with a royal seal he was showing me he wasn't going to read the notes that he trusted me and Was giving me privacy it was a small kindness but the gesture was appreciated he opened the door but I paused halfway through the threshold and turned back to him I didn't realize how close we were squeezed between the door frame but I didn't want to leave the comfort of the

Library without sharing my gratitude thank you I said I never really wanted to be chosen but I'm glad It was you Damien took a strained breath in through his nose and closed his eyes his body seemed tense and I saw him curl his fingers into fists when he looked at me again there was an intense heat in his eyes that spread warmth through my whole body my lips parted involuntarily and I wet my lips with my tongue my heart was pounding and I saw his eyes flick down and look at my neck with a kind

of painful longing then he reached out for me I Leaned forward expecting him to pull me towards him instead he slammed the door shut with such Force I was practically thrown out of his office chapter 10 I was early to class the next morning it was hard to leave my bed which was Dangerously comfortable but after waking up at dawn my thoughts still spinning from the night before I needed to do something physical to take my mind off Damian he'd Been so Charming at dinner I could have sworn he was flirting with me he said

I was important but then he'd pulled away like he couldn't stand to be close to me Claire made me a soft boiled egg with toast and Jam then we headed to the gym on the way I marveled at the scent of fresh fruit and baked pastries as Street vendors set up their booths for the day I wasn't the only one up early two other girls were already in our classroom when I arrived they grabbed weapons off the rack and began swinging them around like they knew what they were doing the one with dark skin and

almond shaped eyes picked out a pair of short swords the other was tall and proud with hair and skin so white it looked like someone had drained her of color she grabbed a long straight stick and spun it around the back of her hand then tossed it in the air before catching it again mid spin she bent down in a Crouch and Beckoned with her finger the darker one charged forward stabbing and slashing with her blades it made me cringe just watching them but it was thrilling I realized I was eager to learn more combat

moves yesterday I got a small taste of what it would feel like to be able to defend myself and I loved it the blond blocked each attack with one end of the staff then suddenly slapped the stick down hard on the darker girl's forearm who cried out in Pain the blonde caught the other girl's neck with the St laugh and forced her backwards while sweeping a leg low to trip her I held my breath but the shorter girl dropped her weapons and latched onto the stick with both hands dragging the blonde down on top of

her then she put her feet up catching the other girl's weight with her legs and tossing her into a pile at my feet she groaned blinking up at me you want in on this she asked holding out her hand and I wasn't sure what to do with it I thought she wanted help up so I reached out to her but she just slapped my hand and rolled away I looked up just in time to see the darkhaired girl running towards me I barely had time to react throwing my hands up into a hasty block as

the girl rained punches down on me I tried to remember what we learned in class yesterday but she was moving too fast and the moves seemed far less predictable than the few simple attacks Mrs foda taught us finally I gave up trying to block and threw a punch towards her face it connected with her nose and she blinked in Surprise she wiped a drop of blood off her cheek with the back of her hand smearing it across her face then grinned wildly she can fight she said kind of then she spun and her foot connected

with my jaw the next thing I knew I was on the ground seeing stars in more pain than I'd ever felt before the blonde Girl was at my side feeling my neck carefully and assessing the damage she waved her fingers in front of my face and I blinked she's fine the darker girl said I barely touched her you know most of these girls haven't been trained the blonde said you could have seriously hurt her so what the girl shot back two drops a day remember she'll be fine I'm Kamina the blonde said and that's Jasmine

where do you learn to fight like that I asked weapons were practically Forbidden in all grave and public altercations ended with a night spent in jail these girls seemed like they'd been training for years I'm from denado Jasmine said we protect the southern borders Cina is from the far north where it's always winter that's why she looks like she's never seen the sun nobody has ever seen the sun I frowned dark gray clouds of Ash filled the sky at all times picture the ash then add snow Kamina said that iBot home sweet home We're on

the far edges of the Kingdom one of the furthest compounds away from the Citadel so we have to protect ourselves and the shipments and supply line protect them from what I asked Rebels and mutants mostly the slag paaw are puppies compared to what we've got up north Cina said you fight them I asked only if necess necessary Cina said and few survive the worst are the elites from other kingdoms though not all the elites wanted to be part of King Richard's Utopia some of them formed their own cities far away they attack every once in

a while when that happens we hide in bunkers underground until reinforcements arrive from The Citadel it's a Six-Day Journey my head was spinning and it wasn't just from Jasmine's kick I thought all the compounds were protected that was basically the whole point I never realized that algra's proximity to the Citadel provided us with a bubble of Safety Mary came into the room followed by several other girls her eyes widened when she saw me my arms were covered with bruises and I felt like my face was lopsided like my jaw wasn't properly aligned I introduced her

quickly to Jasmine and Cina just before master spoda came in she's from iBot too Cina whispered with a touch of pride in her voice she was already a fierce Warrior when she was chosen but then she won the trials and Became Champion her Elite husband offered to ascend her but she chose to remain Human Instead I heard her husband died defending her from an attack since then she's dedicated herself to training the new chosen today we are going to learn how to dance Master saboda said after she'd gotten our attention I groaned joining a chorus

of the other girls not everyone was disappointed Mary looked relieved and I saw Jessica actually smile of course she'd be good At dancing but first Master saboda said I need to tell you about blood memories when an elite feeds from a human they will sometimes draw fragmented memories along with the blood some of these are so realistic they can seem like personal memories motor movements especially skills that take years to learn can be gained in an instant Elites if they choose can pass these memories deliberately with the Elixir if they Concentrate on the memories during

harvesting in today's Elixir she said holding up a vial there is a memory a powerful one close your eyes and try to find it she prepared the short glasses of Elixir again adding two drops to each glass I was glad I didn't have to wait until after running running laps today my jaw was starting to swell and ache I downed my glass in one Gulp and felt The Elixir wash away my pain a minute later I was buzzing with energy I was ready to Start moving but Master saboda made us sit down and close our

eyes focus on the blood in your veins she said in a calm voice focus on your breath fill your lungs then exhale slowly clear your mind of all thoughts I felt Mary stiffen beside me and I cracked my eyes her eyelids were moving like she was seeing something I closed my eyes and tried again every few minutes I heard a gasp or a laugh one girl even started crying It seemed like everybody was accessing the memory except me finally I gave up and stopped trying I decided I was just going to wait it out and

pretend I'd seen the memory too but then it hit me it wasn't just a memory it was like being transported into someone else's mind and body I looked down and saw my feet gliding effortlessly across a dance floor my partner was a tall man with glasses and wiry hair And I loved him I could feel it when I looked at his face and he smiled at me he spun us in a circle and then dipped me I leaned back against his arms confident that he wouldn't let me go when the music ended he took my

hand and pulled me towards the exit the doors were open allowing a cool breeze to caress the white curtains framing the doorway we stepped out onto a wide Bel bony and my breath caught in my chest as I looked up a large white orb hung in The sky Over the Horizon surrounded by small white dots in the sky the moon and stars I realized I'd seen pictures in books or illustrations but I'd never actually seen them they were so beautiful my chest swelled with gratitude the man lifted my chin and kissed me I kissed him

back losing myself in the emotion part of me whispered this is what it feels like to kiss someone you loved it filled my entire being with Longing and desire and something else but then we were blasted apart by some invisible force I tumbled to the ground sliding across the floor on the horizon a thick column of smoke and gas was rising from the ground like some terrible sea monster the building shifted and shook Behind Me Knocking over tables and sending part of the roof caving in screams pierced the air and I crawled on my hands

and knees over the rubble through the smoke looking for my Partner when I finally found him his face was covered in blood I sobbed shaking his body finally his eyes snapped open but they were different hungry the memory vanished and I was back in the training room Mary was shaking my shoulder and I saw the other girls staring at me welcome back Emily Master faota smiled I was too stunned to reply my emotions swirled in my chest I'd felt like I'd lost a limb I'd Loved Someone and had him taken From me in the space

of a few minutes that was the before I said finally I saw the Stars was it like that for everyone the memory is the same but different people will react differently to it or respond differently so all the the other girls had felt the same connection I had with the man in glasses I felt jealousy rage up inside me thinking about the other girls in his arms but I knew it was foolish stupid even he wasn't mine I didn't even know Who he was a blood memory experience is not enough to learn a skill Master

spoda continued but it will make it easier your body will feel more comfortable learning the dance now part of you will feel like you've learned the steps before she broke us up into pairs again this time instead of fighting we were supposed to hold on to each other and spin around the room without getting dizzy 1 2 3 1 2 3 she called out after showing us the basic steps my legs Resisted the Rhythm I'd never been able to stay onbeat finally however things clicked into place and I stopped stepping on Mary's feet Master spota

put on some music and we practiced the simple steps for another hour until we were all sick of the repetitive dance even Jessica had stopped pretending to enjoy herself dancing will teach you balance Poise and elegance but more than that it will teach you spatial a awareness the right Move at the right moment being the first to react the first to move in the right direction understanding nonverbal cues all of these things could save your life or end someone else's we took turns leading and following spinning around the room in a large Circle then I

saw Master saboda reach for a pointed dagger she stood Direct directly in the path of the dancers and we had to Pivot and spin our partners Away from the danger without losing the beat or mixing up the steps I thought Claire was going to pick me up after class again so I was surprised to see Penelope instead I thought we could go out for coffee today unless you have plans go out for coffee I repeated it was a foreign concept and I was still a little stunned from the lingering memory and the feeling of loss

I waved goodbye to the other girls Then followed Penelope down the stairs and Into one of the neighboring Courtyards we cut through two narrow alleys emerging into a wider Courtyard lined with outdoor tables with white umbrellas the ground was paved with wide slabs of flat concrete like a road Penelope looked like like someone from a fashion magazine from the before crisp beige pants and a white blouse I'd never actually seen anyone who looked like that she was even wearing a pair of large white sunglasses that hid half her Face it was brighter here than the

compounds I realized looking up I squinted against the gray sky one round patch of Ash looked brighter than the rest is that the sun I asked pointing upwards you can see the sun from here and why can't I hear the purification engines I asked we don't use those in the Citadel she said sitting at one of the tables I joined her feeling out of place with my workout uniform but nobody seemed to Mind my appearance but how do you keep the ash out giant ve hands built into the ground they blow hot air up and

out it's newer technology than what was used in the compounds a man with a white shirt and a black apron did a double take when he saw us then hurried over it is my rare privilege to have such distinguished guests he said bowing low cappuccino Penelope said and for your guest the man asked um Cofe I said do you like chocolate Penelope Asked I nodded get her the mocha with the whipped cream on top the man smiled bowed again and then backed away I noticed several of the other guests turning to look at us why

are they staring I whispered you'll get used to it she said leaning back to our chair over 20,000 people live in the city cadel she said about 100 Elites live here fulltime others pass through the wives are intermediaries still human but increased access to Elixir makes us Powerful plus our connection affords certain political connections some wives use their position to help the people or improve conditions in the city others are not as kind and use their power for selfish reasons after the wedding ceremony you might have lots of free time maybe too much you'll have

to decide what to do with it if I last that long I said I might fail the trials and get sent back that rarely happens she said it's not Exactly a test you can fail though your performance in the trials May inform your Elite's opinion of you which may influence his decision of whether to keep you all you need to do is get him to like you it's our job to keep them interested the coffee arrived mine was a tall glass mug with Rich dark chocolate and a cookie stuck in the whipped cream it was

sweeter and richer than I expected it tasted like melted candy I could get used to this I said One of the best perks of living in civil ization Penelope said it's hard to make good coffee without an espresso machine they have machines just to make coffee I asked my eyes widening I helped mom make coffee sometimes you boiled water and let the coffee grounds soak it didn't seem complex enough to Warrant a machine I took another Sip and closed my eyes savoring the rich concoction this wasn't technology this was culinary Magic Damian hasn't seemed all

that interested in me I said picking up the conversation where we left off not like that I'm not even sure if he likes me don't be silly he chose you didn't he there were extenuating circumstances I said has he fed on you yet no no I said she frowned and took a sip of her coffee maybe he's just giving you space or maybe he doesn't want me the point of the choosing is so Elites can willingly feed on just one voluntary Person it's an intimate experience for both Partners it can be very pleasant erotic even

but if Elites go too long without feeding they'll become dangerous and violent they won't have enough control to stop when they need to which means they can easily kill the donor but that was a long time ago when the races were practically always at War the protection goes both ways an elite would feed without killing the donor and the donor promised not to stake him at the First chance in the Citadel nobody would be stupid enough to attack an elite and there are thousands of humans in the Citadel who would happily become the favorite companion

of an elite for a short while in exchange for money or extra privileges girls from the village are willing to be used and discarded for sexual pleasure or blood without any marriage or contract Elite are free to take pleasure anywhere and drink from Anywhere even after they've chosen they even have blood loung is set up for that for some Elites choosing isn't serious they don't respect their wives and can be cruel or they can ignore them altogether what I have with Tobias real trust and intimacy it's less common I mean how can it be right

two strangers decide to be with each other because of some ancient contract between our races I felt like Penelope had just trampled my childhood dreams of chosen moving to The Citadel of light and living happily ever after Damien didn't really need my blood and it was an intimate experience maybe he already had someone he was sharing it with maybe he was too kind to see me tortured by Nigel but didn't want me in that way I should have felt relieved but I didn't I hate Ed thinking of him with some other woman can you find

your way back Penelope asked finishing her coffee I've got some Other errands to run before dinner I nodded hoping I wouldn't get lost in the labyrinthine Alleyways plus it would be my first chance to explore on my own I retraced my steps and successfully made it down the first two turns and reached the other Plaza closer to to the building with the training facilities I looked up and saw the room with the wide panel glass walls it was reflecting The View over the Citadel Walls and the landscape the setting Sun's pink and purple Rays pushed

through the dark layer of Ash Over the Horizon adding just a hint of color I was about to head upstairs and then cut over the bridges back to my apartment when a figure caught my eye a bearded man wearing some kind of snug dark suit and a knitted stocking cap with ear flaps he looked familiar and I realized he was the man I saw with Trevor the one walking in the Ash just before the attack on the Caravan time seemed to slow down as our eyes met when he caught me staring at him he frowned

then turned turned and ran around the corner was he running away from me why would anyone do that my feet were pounding pavement before I'd made the conscious decision to follow him questions thrashed through my mind why was he an algrave he wasn't a chosen or an elite so how did he get so much elixir and what was he doing out in the Woods just before our Caravan man was attacked I hated not knowing and the fact that he'd both recognized me and run seemed extremely suspicious he was guilty for sure I just didn't know

of what we ran deeper into the city flying past stalls and vendors some kind of pageant was being performed in one of the squares and I almost lost him in the crowd watching the actors we crossed an arched bridge over the main river that cut through the Citadel and into an area of the city I hadn't been in before there were less Street lamps here and the Shadows grew longer and darker he was fast for an older man the distance between us increased and my lungs were already burning if not for excess of elixir in

my blood I probably would have given up a long time ago I followed him around a corner but he'd vanished the street ended at the Outer Perimeter wall of the city a small doorway in the wall was Flanked by four guards and the Iron Gate was down he couldn't have gone through there the street was mainly deserted except for a handful of men standing outside the one building with lights on they were dressed in rough clothes smoking cigarettes and clutching dark brown bottles the light was fading fast I knew I should give up and go

home but instead I pushed forward past the men ignoring the alcohol on their breath inside I found a wide room with a low Ceiling and long wooden tables it was a bar of some kind women were sitting on the men's laps tickling their chest and smiling laughter came from upstairs along with moans that made me blush what kind of place was this a girl in dark leather pants and a black corset greeted me first her eyes were lined with thick bands of coal and her red lips matched the single red ribbon tucked into her bust

line she tugged on the ribbon suggestively pulling it up Just High Enough to see the end was tied to a small vial of dark red liquid looking for a taste she smiled but then she glanced at my hands oh it's you now I knew why she looked familiar she was the girl who'd laughed at my marks during the presentation Ceremony this morning I hadn't even known blood loues existed and now I was in one facing the consort of my worst enemy chapter 11 sorry I said I was looking for a man we've got those here

she smirked though a pretty young thing like you shouldn't have to pay for companionship some of the men nearby heard her remark and turned turned to smile at me my face flushed bright red not like that I said there was a man with a beard I followed him here never mind I said she Shrugged and went back behind the bar let me buy you a drink at least she said returning with two mugs Her dark curls bounced playfully as she walked welcome to the city she put one hug in my hand and clanked it together

I smelled the cup it was some kind of dark ale I took a sip and could taste the Hops she waved me to follow her and we settled into a table in the corner the room was overflowing with stuff from the before mostly toys and games it looked like but also objects and inventions I had no words to describe I saw you at the ceremony I Said after taking a sip of my beer with Nigel right you know you saw me the girl said so what are you really asking whether I'm with him yes when

he wants me to be I should thank you actually Nigel's been particularly attentive since he met you but you're not chosen I said who would want to be chosen she replied nodding towards my bracelet monitored tracked scrutinized you're basically a piece of performance art a Display me meanwhile I'm free to live my life I can be with an elite one night and a human lover the next I provide a service and I get paid well for it I shuddered imagining what kind of services she provided for Nigel my eye was drawn again to the ribbon

around her neck and the hidden vial of blood was it Elite blood if so where did it come from my mind went immediately to my mother if this girl knew where to get black market Elixir maybe she could help me smuggle Some back to my mom in algrave what's your name I asked call me rivka she said batting her eyelids just then an older woman in a green dress approached the dress had ribbons on the sleeves and a small bouquet of fresh flowers was pinned up with beads and Lace in her hair she was about

to say something to rivka but her eyes bulged when she saw me she took one look at my uniform and grabbed my arm pulling me into a side room apologies Darling but you can't be here I'm sorry I said I was looking for someone and got lost she looked me over carefully then lowered her voice if you're looking for anything specific I can probably get it for you but you can't just show up at my door like this wearing that tracker on your wrist you'll bring the crown right to my door we don't need that

kind of attention I didn't mean to cause you any trouble I said I'll leave right now but I hesitated there was something I needed To ask first do Elites come here even after they've picked out a mate ah I see now she smiled you think your man is cheating on you well I never divulge my my client list so even if he was coming here I wouldn't tell you but they can get blood anywhere right why come here I asked turning up my nose at the smell of burning tobacco in case their Pleasures are darker

she said it's expected for the chosen to be respected for the sake of The Covenant no such limitations apply to my girls the elites with darker tastes can satisfy them here for a price I'll escort her home rivka said grabbing a leather jacket and pulling it on over her dress I have some business to attend to and no doubt Prince Hartman will be grateful for your help the woman said with a smirk and maybe fill your hand with coin for your service I won't turn good silver away rivka said how did you know I asked

Suddenly I mean who I was we just got here everyone knows the chosen she smiled nodding towards a screen in the corner it was replaying clips of last night ceremony though they don't often walk around dressed like that but the marked Beauty Prince Hartman picked out himself Shez famous she pinched my nose lightly with her fingers I backed away crossing my arms I didn't like the idea of people Knowing about me and my marks already rivka knows how to take care of herself on the street but if you get in any trouble just show your

bracelet won't the diamonds just attract thieves I asked the elegant charm sparkled in the dim light as I turned turned my wrist nobody would be fool Hardy enough to trouble a chosen she said though for your new husband's reputation it's probably better if your late night visit to my brothel isn't the First news on everyone's lips tomorrow I blushed and nodded backing out through the front door next time you want to drop by send a message first ask for Madame breezing rivka and I walked in silence for several minutes towards the center of the city

the glow of Street lamps made the Citadel even more breathtaking at night restaurants and shops were still open and the squares we passed were full of people it couldn't be that late Damen May not have even noticed my absence suddenly I was worried about showing up with Nigel consort at my side and how I would explain myself to Damian nothing had happened and I hadn't been in any real danger maybe I could sneak in without raising suspicion I'm fine now I said once I recognized my surroundings I can find my own way back rivka Shrugged

casting a critical glance over my uniform fine she said finally but you owe me see you Around she disappeared down a side street and was swallowed up in Shadow I pushed forward passed the playside had lunch with Penelope I was nearly home when I decided to look for algrave on the horizon I climbed up to the ramparts and gazed over the dark forests but I couldn't see any lights where I thought all grave would be I wondered what my family was doing Jamie and laury would be getting ready for bed Mom might read them a

story I heard a howl and shivered it sounded close I peered into the woods but the haunting blanket of Ash obscured details and the trees melted together in Shadow movement caught my eye and I looked down below inside the city walls soldiers were Wheeling carts of garbage through one of the main city Gates and dumping them in a pile near the forest something about one of the shapes caught my attention my heart pounded as I made out what appeared to be the body of a small girl half buried in trash I raced down the stairs

and through the gate before I had a chance to stop myself and dug through the garbage at first I was confused by the multitude of arms and legs until I realized there were two girls cold and unnaturally pale barely older than laury urchins from the looks of their tattered clothing a chill ran down my spine as I uncovered their faces their throats had been torn out Viciously and their eyes looked like they'd been burned out by a hot brand leaving black black X's that made them look like unfinished dolls when I looked closer I could

see two small holes on the girl's neck bite marks I wish you hadn't seen that a voice said behind me I Whirled around to find the dark silhouette of one of the soldiers a mask covered half his face but the gleaming knife in his hand made his intention clear I I darted around The other side of the cart then into a tight alley and up the stairs my feet retracing the way to Damian's apartment I was almost there when a large shape moved in front of me and grabbed my arms I kicked scratching at his

face but my fingers hit hard plastic he was wearing a white mask with expressionless features half hidden by the brim of a large black hat the figure held my wrists with impossible strength and I felt an uncomfortable buzzing in my Skull go home he said softly remember nothing speak of this to no one then he let go of my wrists I ran the rest of the way home and closed the door behind me breathless chapter 12 I wanted to wait up for Daman but after taking a bath I was so tired I couldn't keep myself

awake any longer I awoke to confusing memories of the night before I remembered the man in the white mask with the black hat and the soldier Who' threatened me though his face was blurry like someone had scrubbed it off I also remembered the bodies and and the girl her throat torn out Jagged flesh ripped open so deep I could see her collar bone but was that inside the gates or outside I also had a memory of a garbage cart and the pile of refu outside the walls it seems crisper more colorful but the bodies of

the children were missing did I really remember it correctly or Had it all been a dream I had to tell someone what I'd seen about the dead girls I couldn't get the vision out of my head the mutilated flesh the pale skin and scorched eye sockets but worse than that the way they were just discarded thrown away like they didn't matter it made me sick to think about it were the soldiers covering up the murders why would they do that we didn't have murder in algrave not that I knew of Commons were supposed to be

protected that was the whole reason we had a choosing ceremony if the Covenant couldn't protect human children from violent deaths what was the point of any of it why was I even here Madame breezing told me I'd be safe but what about everyone else there was a knock on the door then Claire stepped in with a tray with breakfast fresh ham and cheese omelette Black coffee and steamed rolls with butter where's Damian I asked out hunting she said there was an attack last night two young girls were killed my pulse pounded in my chest so

it was real slag paaw attack outside the gates Annette clarified coming in nothing to worry about the foolish girls were out picking berries after Sunset still the elite don't like the idea of slag paaw hunting so close to the Citadel daman's leading a hunting party I shook my head In confusion but it wasn't slag paaw I muttered I'd seen the bodies inside the gates and they'd been drained of blood I couldn't forget the stiff porcelain white skin something was wrong Annette saw my expression but misunderstood the cause don't worry she said he'll be fine you'll

see him again at dinner for now let's get you ready for class somehow she'd already washed and dried my training outfit it must have been filthy after tearing through half the city last Night I was grateful she hadn't said anything about it maybe Claire had picked it up before Annette could see it training started with more Sprints and warm-up routines I pushed myself until I was too exhausted to think then we practiced the combat moves again only this time Master swaboda made us rotate Partners every 10 minutes the moves were the same but as we

added increasingly complex block or counter moves there was room for error and we had to predict What our opponent was going to do I was sparring with one of the smaller girls but she blocked almost all my attacks then it was time to change I looked up and frowned when I saw Jessica was my next opponent she wasn't thrilled to be paired with me either she lashed out immediately cuffing my ear I wasn't ready I said I assumed the starting stance then motioned her forward she punched out with her long arms but I blocked them

easily she grabbed my arm And tried to pull me off balance but I reversed my grip and pushed her backwards a trick I'd learned from Jasmine earlier she fell onto her back and I pinned her hands against the mat then her sleeve fell back and I noticed the marks on on her neck rough patches that looked like they hurt with indentations my eyes opened wide they looked exactly like the marks I'd seen on the dead girls last night at least in one of my Visions so they were bite Marks which meant an elite inside the

city was killing girls and the royal guard was covering it up Jessica caught me staring and pulled her clothes up to cover the marks with a look I could have sworn was shame but then she recovered quickly and smiled at me I can't help it if I'm so desirable she said Thomas can barely keep his hands off me he says I'm the sweetest thing he's ever tasted what hasn't yours touched you yet She asked tugging down my collar to get a better view of my neck oh my God what's wrong with you he must have

realized he made a mistake in picking you after what I saw last night I wasn't sure I wanted Damian to bite me like that but her words still stung after all why hadn't he fed on me wasn't that the whole reason I was even here peace between our races to depended on the Covenant which included not only the sacrament of renewal but also the Choosing Penelope said I had to get Damien to like me but how if he could barely stand to be in the same room with me I'd been hoping to ask him for

extra Elixir for my mother but how long would that take maybe Trevor was right there were other ways to get elixir and I knew at least least one person who knew them Master saboda clapped her hands and brought our attention to the front of the room as she lined up the glasses preparing our Daily dose of Elixir I realized all of my senses were hyper focused on her movements I watched her carefully as she replaced the Elixir locked the refrigerated cabinet and slipped the key in her pocket I told myself I was only Ed in

saving my mother but part of me knew that wasn't the only reason I felt a physical craving an eagerness that hadn't been there before when it was my turn I grabbed a glass and gulped down the Elixir feeling Power flood through my veins the bracelet on my wrist beeped as the levels in my blood Rose to 3% I flexed my fingers and bounced on the heels of my feet itching to expel this new energy today we're going to learn about compulsion Master saboda said this isn't common knowledge but it is important as chosen you will

have privileged access to the elites you'll see them close up and might overhear things that their enemies could use Against them family secrets as it were the Elixir strengthen an Elites natural abilities these mostly manifest as increased speed strength or stamina but they also increase mental acuity cognitive function and brain power some Elites are able to use these abilities to influence humans or even other Elite the effects can be subtle she continued a strongly worded warning that fun as a command an inability to refuse or if they are powerful enough they can Even Force someone

to do what they do not want to do this is compulsion a similar ability bordering on telepathy is when Elites push an illusion into the mind of others in the form of a glamour they can literally make you see or experience things that aren't there I saw murmurs from the other girls and felt a sudden chill I had no idea Elites were able to do that it raised questions I wasn't ready to think about is that what the man in The Mask did to me tried To replace my memories with a glamour if so why

hadn't it worked Master fabot clasped her hands behind her back and nodded at our frowns hurting humans is illegal under King Richard's Covenant Elites can only feed on human blood when it's freely offered the problem is it's not always easy to tell when you're being compuls many humans find the elite so Charming they don't realize their decisions are not their own can we compulse Kamina Asked unfortunately no Master saboda said you'd have to have a lot of elixir in your system too much it would consume you and you'd probably die but you can learn to

feel the effects of compulsion and resist them today we'll practice that with the help of a special guest she nodded towards the door just as Tobias stepped through it he stroe into the room and smiled I I heard Jasmine whisper I wouldn't mind if he can puls me sometime unlike us in our boring Training uniforms Tobias was dressed in a dark pair of jeans shiny leather shoes a white collared shirt and a form-fitting jacket he wasn't as muscular as Daman but he was a much better dresser and goodlooking like all the elites drinking more Elixir

will help you resist compulsion Master saboda continued but your willpower will be limited the more you fight against it the more it will drain your energy today we'll teach you to notice the effects of Compulsion so that you can begin to resist them close your mind Tobias will try to plant images or thoughts into your thoughts show you your worst fears or your deepest desires you need to learn learn how to identify when you're being compuls and resist if possible The Elixir will help at first Tobias crossed his arms and stood at the front of

the class staring at us at first nothing happened he held each girl's eyes for a few seconds with an Unflinching gaze sometimes he would wink or smile or change posture when it was my turn I felt a buzzing over my skin an itchiness like ants crawling he didn't even blink and time seemed to slow to a stop my eyelids drooped and I felt drowsy it was a relief when he finally looked away and focused on another girl this time he started walking around he'd lean up to a girl and whisper something In her ear he'd

get right in her face inches away and stare her down Mary was the first one to crack suddenly she started screaming she jumped up and started dragging her fingernails across her skin leaving deep red marks they're not real master spoda said no matter how realistic they seem Mary couldn't stop moving though now she was scr ing at her throat and her face her eyes filling up with panic stop it I yelled can't you Teach us without torturing us Tobias looked back towards master saboda who Shrugged Tobias smirked then held his hands up like he was

casting a net over all of us all the girls in the room Stood Still then smiled in amazement several let out size of delight and and awe their eyes glassing over mesmerized by some fantasy I couldn't see Tobias made eye contact with me again and raised his eyebrows master Spoda came over and checked the monitor on my wrist she's still at 2% she said to Tobias are you losing your touch Tobias came closer and stared at me with a hypnotic gaze narrowing his eyes I felt the itchiness again stronger this time like a hive of

bees let loose inside my skull the monitor on my wrist turned red and dropped to 1% tobias's lips curved into a satisfied smile but I could also see the tension in his forehead as he Concentrated finally the bracelet beeped indicating I was down to zero it was like a veil dropped down over the entire room suddenly I was outside in a forest the sky was clear and full of stars Tobias and Mrs soda faded along with the gym but I could still see the girls now however I could see what they were interacting with it

was some kind of circus with red and white tents and exotic animals Mary was eating something that looked Like cotton candy Jasmine and Kamina were ogling a pair of monkeys in a cage several girls were laughing as a clown tied colorful balloons into little animal shapes luminescent fruit Grew From thick green leaves and glowing pink and purple butterflies flew between us it was so vivid it was almost real but some something felt off the colors were too bright and there was a subtle flickering in the sky where the ash should be I squinted my eyes

focusing on The Flicker and took a deep breath the scene shifted in transparency and the vision faded until I could see Tobias and Mrs faod again frowning at me I walked towards them have I done something wrong I asked not here Master saboda whispered sharply in my ear we'll talk about it after class Tobias dropped his hands and the girls blinked as if they were Awakening from a dream as you can see Master saboda continued addressing the class Again glamour can be enchanting even pleasurable but they can also be terrifying and dangerous ous but they

can't really hurt us can they Mary asked physically no master spoda said though imagine being trapped in a nightmare watching everyone you care about put to death by your own hand and don't forget some Elite are strong enough to compulse you against your will it's illegal except for dire cir cumstances of security to compulse a Human but it's difficult to prove as I mentioned however the chosen are weak spots and some Elite May risk breaking the law for political Advantage you'll be targets it's doubtful anyone would risk harming you directly but be wary of any

Elite who seems to turn on the charm let's try something simple capture the FL Tobias nodded I knew this game we played it in the compound when I was younger it was one of my favorites I Expected Master faota to split us into two teams but instead it was all of the chosen against Tobias he was Elite which meant he was faster and stronger than any of us but I still thought we had a chance after all he couldn't defend his flag and steel ours at the same time when the whistle blew half of the

chosen raced towards tobias's flag and the other half tried grabbing Tobias to capture him he dodged them easily jumping over them or running straight Across the walls keeping an eye on him made me dizzy so I concentrated on the other side of the room where a ring of girls were standing protectively around tobias's flag instead of seizing it they kneeled around it with their hands behind their backs the rest of the girls who had been playing Defense formed a triangle around Kamina who grabbed our flag and brought it straight to Tobias he was controlling them

like puppets that much power it made me sick Just thinking about it this was just a game master faota said but what if it had been a battle one powerful Elite could control dozens of soldiers any Ally could become a threat you can't trust anyone because you never know who could turn against you or worse when you yourself might turn against the ones you love and destroy all that you care about I shivered rubbing my Palms against my bare arms there was a softness in master sod's eyes and I remembered what Kamina Told me earlier

about her Elite dying to protect her I wondered if I'd ever hear the rest of that story after class master saboda and Tobias asked me to stay behind they exchanged heated Whispers until I got tired of them ignoring me just tell me I said there's something wrong with me isn't there it's nothing Master suod said squeezing my shoulder just something a little unusual we didn't expect for now It's very important you don't tell anyone what happened in class today understand I nodded wondering what had happened in class today Tobias will escort you home I frowned

it felt like I was was being punished for something but I didn't even know what I'd done wrong we were nearly home when curiosity got the better of me I don't understand I said quietly we were supposed to resist the compulsion weren't we that's what the exercise was for yes Tobias said you Did well maybe too well humans shouldn't be able to resist compulsion like you did today even with the extra Elixir it makes you special but it could also be dangerous if anybody found out I rolled my eyes how could I be dangerous we

found a deck of cards and played until Damien returned his dark leather pants were dirty and his shirt torn and stained with blood what happened I asked dropping my cards on the table nothing he said But then he saw Tobias why don't you go into the library Daman said nodding towards the door I frowned but left the room in the library I pulled the door almost all the way closed then leaned my ear against it I couldn't hear everything but caught a few words from down the hall one word in particular was repeated several times

renitent Damian said something about keeping it a secret I heard footsteps so I grabbed a book and pretended to be reading just as Daman came in I thought he'd ask me about my day or tell me what he and Tobias had been talking about instead he just grabbed another book and sat on the sofa by the window with his back towards me there was so much I wanted to tell him but I didn't know where to be again he looked tired after hunting all day he probably needed to feed I couldn't help thinking of Jessica's

remarks in class was there something wrong with me was that why he didn't want me the silence Had grown unbearable when he finally spoke did you have a good time last night he asked what are you talking about I snapped back I saw you on the other side of town I thought you didn't know anyone here I don't I just wanted to explore so you went straight from Madam breezing Blood Lounge you shouldn't be in that area how do you know Madame breezing I glared don't change the subject he said closing the book if you

knew where I was why didn't You come get me I asked I had to walk home by myself I wanted to give you space besides it's perfectly safe in The Citadel safe like it was for the murdered girls that was a slag paaw attack Damien said and it happened outside the gates they could never get into the city you're wrong I said quickly it wasn't a slag paaw attack and they were killed inside the Walls by an elite you Leets don't kill humans Damen said with Conviction was he covering it up protecting his own class

I studied his face wondering if he was hiding something but he seemed to honestly believe what he was saying which meant whatever was going on he wasn't part of it a wave of relief washed over me as I realized perhaps for the first time time that I could trust my husband but would he trust me the bodies were drained of blood I pressed I saw the bite marks and they were carried out The main gate in a rubbish cart by Royal Guards that's impossible Damian said and afterwards I think an elite tried to compulse me

make me forget what I saw I thought Daman would be surprised even angry after all this was happening in his kingdom he was supposed to care about this stuff but my face fell as his expression didn't flicker he just studied me thoughtfully you don't believe me I said letting my shoulders slump I crossed my Arms and leaned back against the couch next to him I want to believe you it's just you're new here here I don't know what you think you saw and you came home late after sneaking around the Citadel at night I wanted

to protest but I bit my tongue when he held up his hand to silence me I get it you were scared you see the elites as powerful and dangerous I know we must seem like Monsters to you but you're safe nobody is going to hurt you I won't let anything happen to you He leaned forward gripping my shoulders and I stiffened I'd opened up to him telling him about crimes committed in his kingdom it wasn't that he didn't care he just didn't believe me I wanted to push him away and wrap myself up in his

arms at the same time suddenly a vision pierced my mind a picture of him scattering the books and papers to the ground and bending me over the desk my breath grew ragged and my pulse jumped it was suddenly far too warm in Here was that his thought or mine Damian coughed looking embarrassed he stood awkwardly and gestured towards the door you'll eat alone tonight he said I have work to do I was being dismissed again I paused at the door my fingertips clutching the door frame the one who stopped me was wearing a white mask

I said quietly before leaving I think he was Elite and he told me to forget what I saw and go home it Was real and you should do something about it before more people die there was a flicker in his eyes as that confession registered a look of recognition that sent chills down my spine he knew something I was sure of it but who was he protecting on my way back to my room I decided if I was going to survive the Citadel I had to find some allies of my own chapter 13 2 days

passed Daman said a Curt help Hello or good evening to me when we passed at home but never let down his brooding guard I spent my morning's training and my afternoons in the library trying to find any mention of the word renitent I came up empty the most interesting books were scientific journals with marks and reference notes in Damian's handwriting but no matter how hard I stared at the equations and figures I I couldn't discern their Meaning higher up on the Shelf were Stories full of fantasy and castles and Dragons with supernatural beings and trickster

gods and maidens being rescued and falling in love I tried not to let myself get distracted but a few of them sucked me in and kept me up so late I had to drag myself to class in the morning it wasn't hard to see myself playing a role in some kind of fantastic journey of my own though I couldn't see the purpose If This Were a story Damian Would be kind and heroic we'd fall in love and live happily ever after with my whole family in the Royal Palace but Damian had barely said two words

to me since the other night part of me wondered who he was feeding on and why I wasn't good enough but I was also angry he didn't believe me about the dead girls and now he was keeping secrets about Me Maybe Jessica was right maybe there was something wrong with me but that didn't mean I was Going to sit around and do nothing if children were disappearing in the city there had to be proof I just had to find it class kept me busy but I still felt like I was missing something something a purpose

maybe a mission all my life I'd been waiting to find out what would happen waiting for things Beyond My Control in Damian's Stories the heroins had a quest but what was mine save my mother prove my worth to Damian so he'd keep me in the Citadel or push him away so he wouldn't I didn't know what I want Ed the frustration mounted in class although the brutal repetition of practice sparring kept me occupied Master faota never made it easy she kept adding new challenges into our routines like balancing glasses of water on our heads and

trying to keep from soaking ourselves as we moved some days I felt like I was making progress others I was sure I was the Worst in class after getting bruised and bloodied we'd drink our Elixir and the marks would fade leaving our skin perfectly smooth and clear except for the ugly marks on my hands they stood out even more now Angry Red against the eggshell white of my skin this was definitely not the life I imagined waiting for the chosen in the Citadel can you tell us more about the trials Jasmine asked one day during

a water break maybe it would help to know What we were preparing for I can't share any specifics that would give you an advantage Master saboda said besides how you deal with the surprises that you're unprepared for will be the most important indicators indicators of what though I asked I mean I don't even get why the trials are necessary what difference does it make whether we win or lose why do we have to prove ourselves at all some of the other girls nodded in Agreement and I even saw an eager look in Jessica's eye maybe

I wasn't the only one wondering what we were fighting for you're fighting for the honor and Glory of your Elite Master saboda said the elite don't need the Covenant the king allows it because it's fun it keeps the elite in engaged in the ceremony but it's mainly a distraction and rivalry a form of gambling even the elite keep an eye out for chosen who will make interesting contenders it gives them Something to do to fill the long decades without the Chosen and the trials the elite would get bored turn on each other and cause problems

so were entertainment sport like race sing dogs Cina asked wrinkling her nose and Crossing her arms I think that depends on your Elite but no not like dogs the elite are also expected to have a relationship with you they wouldn't have chosen you if they didn't find you attractive the trials and the Competition is just one factor some Elite don't care about it at all but each year one chosen will win and become the champion it's a glorified position it means increased Prestige to the Elite's house but also a marked increase in your own personal

power and autonomy in the Citadel most humans are second class citizens there may be laws against the elite hurting us or feeding on us without permission but not all of the elite agree with those laws some see Us as critically inferior soft weak stupid many humans are treated with disdain and Scorn little more than indentured servants why don't they leave Mary asked life here for most is still better than in the compounds also there's the possibility of more Elixir the elite are free to share their blood with whomever they want as long as humans are

careful not to exceed the Regulations Some Humans once they get a taste for it aren't willing to get only one drop a week I'm sure some of you can appreciate that feeling you're faster now stronger than you were before you arrived if you stopped taking your daily Elixir it would be a difficult adjustment period returning to your former selves do well in the trials and continue living well in the capital earn the respect of your Elite and the community everyone watches the trials It's your chance to prove yourself as more than just a pretty face

as an equal and a real partner it brings honor for your husband to have chosen well but don't do it for them do it for you if you become Champion there is almost nothing King Richard would refuse you you can have anything you desire pardon anyone save anyone Master saboda caught my eye and gave me a meaningful look did she know about my Mother so if I won the trials I might be able to request extra Elixir for my mother the only question was Will would she last that long class was almost over when I

heard murmurs and looked behind me King Richard stood in the doorway wearing a dark suit a black cape and a bright red tie Master saboda bowed low at his entrance and the girls followed her lead I'd been sparring with Jasmine and she took advantage of the distraction to Twist my arm and shove my face hard into the mat I could already feel the bruise forming on my cheek but Master faota told us we'd have to wait till tomorrow for more Elixir today we'd just feel the pain King Richard frowned at my dirty training outfit I'm

sorry I said Hanging my head I wasn't expecting to do anything today it's not a problem he said I just wanted to check in on your Progress after all I've never had a daughter-in-law join the trials before I wanted to see if you needed any help but first perhaps a tour how much have you seen of the Citadel not much I admitted between classes I haven't had time to explore it's a shame my son hasn't been showing you the city you need to understand the marvels of this place to appreciate the entire project the project

what we're doing here the importance of it all I Shrugged Can we stop by the apartment first so we can grab some clothes no need I had Claire pick something up he nodded behind him and Claire came forward with a nervous bow she accompanied me into the bathroom and helped me change into a lightweight gown with blue silk trimmed with gold and floral embroidery it was the fanciest dress I'd ever worn apart from the one at the presentation ceremony how's this look I asked coming Out of the stall but CLA had already stepped outside and

instead I saw Jessica glaring back at me from the mirror her red eyes told me she'd been crying in the bright lights I could see bruises on her neck and shoulders and multiple bite marks that made my blood run cold are they hurting you I asked Softly You're so naive she said flipping her hair back what did you expect just because you were too prude to know what you were getting into doesn't mean that I was her eyes sparkled as she stormed out of the bathroom I washed my face in the sink and when I

looked up a blinking red light in the corner caught my eye a camera but why here King Richard led me through the city pointing out a few of his favorite spots a garden of sculptures an art gallery with thousands of beautiful paintings vertical rows of planted vegetables on an automated watering schedule it's enough to feed everyone in The Citadel year round King Richard said humans live in Better Health than ever and can develop their unique skills at leisure we're always on the lookout for exciting ideas imagine if we took the greatest scientific Minds gave them

unlimited resources and kept them alive and healthy for a few extra centuries what couldn't we achieve I didn't understand half of the technology he showed me or seemed most proud of but I smiled politely every Once in a while I would ask questions about how something worked why don't we have all this stuff in the compounds I asked technology is a weapon he replied humans can be violent even dangerous if left to their own devices besides if they didn't have to work what would they fill their time with I bit my lip to hide a

frown I'd spent my childhood risking my life to feed my family but apparently King Richard thought the task of survival kept us from worse trouble We stood at the edge of a platform looking out over sculpted Gardens the king's flowing Cape was lined with red fabric and fluttered in the wind he was carrying a black cane with a gold handle which seemed almost as impractical as the thin gold crown on his head my blue dress sparkled brightly contrasting with his dark Ensemble people started to notice us they gathered in hushed circles or trailed at a

respectful distance in a few places they actually Stopped to cheer King Richard led us up the hill and through the palace Gates passed a line of about 20 soldiers once we were alone again he stopped suddenly to face me it's come to my attention that my son is neglecting his duties to you or perhaps you're neglecting your duties to my son I'm sorry I stuttered blushing I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do there's no hard rules for this sort of thing he said not not until after the trials and the Official wedding at that

point of course if the marriage wasn't consummated in blood it would be a problem but even so you can appreciate that the public is bound to talk and they may be wondering if Damian isn't interested in you for your body or blood why he did Choose You the King quirked an eyebrow as if waiting for a response but I had none to give him I'd been asking myself the same thing since I got here and was no closer to finding Answers come I want to show you something we followed a steep road that snaked down

the hill and ended against the face of a rocky Cliff it was around the other side from the main Palace where the presentation ceremony had taken place just inside the outer Gates a heavy metal door twice as tall as the King was set into the solid rock the king raised his fingertip to a keypad and then scanned his eye against a panel the door slid open smoothly with a hum And we headed inside to understand the present he said we must understand the past I'm sure you've heard stories of the before and of the race

Wars but you can't fully appreciate it until you've seen what it was like that's why I built the Citadel here in this location inside the tunnel extended into a large Cavern historical reliefs of great battles were etched into the walls in the center of the cave was a Crystal Blue Lake so deep I couldn't see the Bottom and in the center of the lake a small island with a bench and two torches stepping stones made a path Across The Still Waters and beams of colored light illuminated the scene as we got closer I saw that

the entire Island was composed of white polished bones and the Torches were actually made of skulls with flickering Flames emerging from jaw and eye sockets the pile continued under the water Fading Into the inky depths as far as I Could see what is this place I asked a chill running up my spine and why bring me here the sight of the last battle said the king the elite were tired of being persecuted they wanted safety for their own kind so they retreated to this natural stronghold the humans followed followed them and trapped them here until

they were sick with blood lust that was a mistake after losing Their Humanity the elite tore through their attackers by the thousands then gathered up The Remains the pile grew so large it formed a mountain that could be seen for miles in all directions the elite kept the survivors in cages and bled them dry they farmed humans like chickens killing them for sport and chewing flesh off their bones the humans learned to stay away from the stronghold but suffered in the ash always on the run always sick always Dying the elite meanwhile were devolving into

monsters and without a steady supply of food they were forced to Brave the poisonous Ash both races were on the brink of Extinction when I gathered them together and proposed a truce we signed an agreement which became the Covenant I built this Cavern to preserve the memory of what was and of what could be again what do you mean I asked I've spent a century perfecting the system and we've had nearly 98 years of Peace humans Don't remember what it was like before some of them imagined that they could create something better that they could

survive without the help of the elite but they're wrong it's either this or something much worse for everyone I gulped wondering if he was talking about the rebels see that sword out there he asked I looked towards where he was pointing and saw a collection of skelet forming together a giant fist holding the sword to the Sky the fist was so large it made the sword look like a toothpick I put it there to remind myself that I don't want to be that kind of ruler that when I take my sword out for battle many

people will die it's always better to choose diplomacy and control why are you sh showing me this I asked the air in the cave was stale and it felt like I was breathing death itself into my lungs I needed to get outside even without the sword I knew King Richard could end my life a thousand different ways did Daman tell him what I saw was he warning me to be quiet did he know what I was a renitent there there is a reason why all things are as they are the choosing the trials everything I

do is to preserve the peace on both sides because it's better than the alternative my son has not always understood this truth but it's important that you keep him in line and help him Understand that it has to be this way I don't think I could make Daman do anything he doesn't want to do I said which earned a rare smile from the King he's stubborn he said but his happiness with you it matters more than you could ever know it's important you win him over because if you don't he nodded out again at the

enormous pile of bones loneliness will sit over our roofs with brooding Wings what I asked as Goosebumps tingled My skin it's a quote I like from a book King Richard said the elite may seem in control powerful to you but imagine what it would be like to be different from nearly everyone else there are few of Our Kind yet we hold dominion over all things my son has been lonely I suspect for for a long time did you know he's never chosen not once in over a 100 years he hasn't been with anyone since the

before when he was still human and Now he has you I hope he's made the right decision I'm sure you'll prove my fears unfounded Saturday will be your first renewal at the capital use it to think about what you want chapter 14 I needed to get my head in the game King Richard's question rang in my ears why did Damian choose me if he didn't want me I'd been afraid to ask it before but knowing that the king and other people Were aware of the lack of intimacy between Daman and I made me feel ashamed

and guilty I felt like everyone was watching me for every camera lens I could see I wondered if there weren't dozens of others better hidden was I being watched all the time did I have any privacy at all I wished Amber were here or even Trev I needed someone I could talk to someone I could trust but it was just me and my family were counting on me my mother worked her Whole life for this opportunity just so I'd be chosen and I was throwing it away chasing visions and Mysteries putting it in Jeopardy I

didn't want to get sent home in disgrace unwanted there must be a reason Daman chose me I just had to find it and remind him I had to at least stay long enough to figure out how to get more Elixir so I could save my mom Master saboda said the champion of the trials Could save anyone I didn't know how I was going to actually win the trials competing against girls like Camina and Jasmine but it was my best chance I owed it to my family to at least try and even if I didn't win

Penelope suggested I could have real Power by being Damian's chosen basically a princess maybe someday a queen Daman had never chosen before so I wasn't just any Chosen but my role was undefined I'd have to fill it myself and figure out how to make it my own luckily the king had given me an idea maybe he hadn't meant to but the lesson I'd learned is that I can't fight my way into Damian's heart I didn't know how to flirt like Jessica did but I could at least try to get closer to Damian I was done

waiting around for him to take an interest in me maybe it was my responsibility to take an interest in Him first after all relationships went too ways I'd been focused on classes on training even though I'd been told the trials weren't the most important thing the most important thing was Damian and how he felt about me but we were still practically strangers and that wasn't going to change if he kept avoiding me until after the trials the king dropped me off at my apartment but I went straight to daman's I'd spent hours in the library

hoping he'd drop in but today things looked different books were scattered across the desk and sheets of paper were scrolled with notes and illustrations some of them were surprisingly good there was even a half finished portrait that looked a lot like me candles were burned down to the stub with wax dripping over the papers a dictionary was opened to one particular entry circled with red ink Renitent adjective one resistant to physical pressure not pliant two reluctant to yield or be suede recalcitrant I frowned no surprise there I already knew I was stubborn this couldn't be

the big secret master saboda and Tobias had been so worried about but then why had Damian been up all night looking for answers I realized I didn't know very Much about my future husband the house was practically a shell full of fancy statues and paintings and glossed tables meant to make an impression but devoid of personality if I was going to get Damian to like me I had to understand him to know who he was I decided it was time to explore the rest of the house my heart raced as I furtively climbed the stairs

and snuck into his bedroom I checked under his mattress and ran my Hands under his fine garments and clothes on the dresser was a frame with a faded photograph behind glass I barely recognized Daman his blond hair glowing from the sun and a bright smile next to him was King Richard wearing a tank top and shorts they were on a dock of some kind with a lake behind them and an airplane floating on the surface of the water behind them I recognized the machine from picture books though I'd never seen one I couldn't even imagine

How it stayed in the air it seemed like magic to me I picked up the frame marveling at the Clear Blue Sky and green trees the colors seemed so bright even though this photo must be over a hundred years old I heard the door downstairs and my heart pounded thinking Damian had come home early I set the frame back carefully trying to remember exactly where it had been on the Shelf then hurried downstairs and slipped into the library but when when I heard Jasmine's voice yelling my name I hurried to open the door grab your

stuff she said when she saw me we're going out I hesitated for a moment but then I realized I'd spent the last few days waiting around in Damian's vast empty house in case he wanted to spend time with me I was done waiting Jasmine grabbed my hand and pulled me through the night Night Market Camina was ahead of us her tall form pushing through the crowd like a barge Mary trailed behind an expression of Wonder on her face as she explored the colorful Wares brought from all corners of the Kingdom strands of hanging lights lit

up the alley and stalls containing open air kitchens brewed spicy concoctions that made my nose tingle they have everything here Mary shouted above the noise we found it the other night Jasmine said my stomach growled at the Exotic smells individual stalls selling skewers of meat and vegetables Were crammed against the sides of two towering glass buildings between them were narrow tables and stools filled with people it was so crowded I could barely keep track of my friends even though they were only a few feet in front of me there was food from every region some

I recognized and some decidedly foreign is that a fried spider I groaned pointing at one stall it's like chicken Cina said you should try snake's blood Or scorpion that'll put hair on your chest and that's a good thing I asked Mary grabbed my hand and pointed out a stall with rows of colorful containers behind glass ice cream she said with wide eyes I understood her amazement we had ice cream in algrave on rare occasions but never this kind of variety I've only ever had vanilla I said let's eat first Jasmine said nodding deeper into the

crowd I pulled Mary away from the colorful display Strings of Lights climbed messily above us Illuminating the path music played from speakers and we even passed a few musicians asking for Loose Change while playing guitar or violin my face fell when I saw the glint of coins I didn't bring any money with me I said stopping suddenly just flash your bracelet Jasmine said shaking her wrist to show off her bracelet the steel band glittered against the lights even though It wasn't ostentatiously studded with diamonds like mine was we stopped at a stall and grabbed stools

Jasmine let her arm fall heavily on the table catching the chef's eyes which opened wide as he looked at our group he hurried over and made a low bow it's an honor to serve you tonight he said he snapped his fingers and shouted to a young man behind the counter who quickly began mixing sauces the dish was ready in minutes chicken steak with a fried egg And noodles still sizzling on a heated pan flip the egg so it Cooks Jasmine said is this what you eat where you're from I asked in denado something like this

but with more flavor and a lot more spice but I know kamina's sensitive taste buds can't handle the heat she smirked and Cina kicked her under the table in iBot we eat for sustenance not pleasure Cina said but she moaned as she took her first bite of the fried Noodles that makes sense Mary said we're supposed to be beautiful and strong but they keep feeding us I can't take two steps in my apartment without finding a plate of cookies chocolates or sandwiches I think my Elite forgot how much humans eat and is trying to make

sure I don't starve at least he's paying attention Cina grumbled mine remembered to feed me the first few days but since then I've learned not to count on dinner I just ask the staff to make me what I Want to eat or I go out and forage on my own that's how I found this place thank goodness I said so it's not just me does anyone else think it's weird how they just stare at you and watch you eat so creepy Mary nodded like they're fattening us up for Slaughter Jasmine said which they basically are

they're just spoiling us Cina said being a chosen is an honor besides I think the Elixir burns fat or we just burn it off during practice it's not Like they can actually hurt us my mind flashed back to the image of the young girls with their torn throats and burned out eyes I was tempted to tell the others what I'd seen but I didn't know where to start and I didn't want to worry them they had enough to think about already without the knowledge that some Elites weren't playing by the rules I wondered again about

the dark figure in the white mask who tried to compulse me as much as I needed to talk about it With someone I didn't want to worry my new friends or put them at risk Secrets could be dangerous plus I was afraid of being overheard I glanced at my bracelet I knew kept track of our physical location what if it did more than that as if on Q I heard a woring and looked up to see a red blinking light flying above us a security drone just another reminder that life in the Citadel wasn't as

liberating as it was made out to be After dinner we bought pink cotton candy and headed to the games area a wide Courtyard with a Center Fountain lined by trees the Stalls spread around the square it reminded me of the algrave festival and I felt a sting of nostalgia for my former life my eyes lit up when I saw the archery range it had been so long since I held my father's bow I felt a physical sense of longing in my Palms I picked up one of the bows and tested its weight crisp paper targets

with Colored Rings beckoned from across a small pond I saw movement in the water and realized it was full of large orange fish they seemed to glow in the dark water hit the bullseye and win a prize an overweight man with a curled mustache said I nodded and he handed me a bundle of Five Arrows I'm in too Kamina said said grabbing the bow on my right she knocked an arrow and squared her shoulders confidently her muscles rippled as she Pulled the string back to her ear and released the arrow sang through the air and

smacked the target with Force but she'd only hit the outside of the target she frowned and glanced at her bracelet which still read 1% strange she said I used to be really good at this when I concentrate it's like I can feel the Elixir working but it makes me Reckless I released carelessly thanks for the tip I said I lifted my bow and pulled back the arrow The exertion of the strings pulled my muscles taut and I zoomed in on the target my vision seemed to magnify Illuminating the Target in startling detail and my fingers

itched to release the string I fought the impulse and held it deliberately slowing my breath I tried to imagine a juicy rabbit and tuned out the crowds and noise around me replacing them with the silent Ash filled Forest that had been my hunting Ground then I thought of my family my little brother and sister's stomachs rumbling and my mother who was sick and maybe dying while I was in the City of Lights playing games I loosed the arrow with Fierce determination then I quickly knocked the next Arrow releasing weeks of pent up frustration and shot

off two more the thwap of the string against my arm was both thrilling and comforting at the same time I felt more myself than I had Since arriving in the Citadel when my palm reached for the next Arrow and came up empty I blinked and looked around me I hardly remembered shooting all five of the arrows and I definitely didn't notice the small crowd that had grown around me people were clapping and Kamina was staring at my target with a dumb struck expression I followed her gaze and realized all Five Arrows had hit the small

red circle in the center of the Target a perfect score that was amazing Jasmine said pulling me into a hug guess we might have underestimated this one e Kamina she's got some warrior in her after all she's probably just been hiding her skills in class where did you learn to shoot like that Kamina asked my family got tired of eating oats and rice and we couldn't afford meat I said with a shrug I've been hunting since I was eight and the targets usually move it felt nice to Be good at something but there was something

worrying about my excellent performance I was confident with a bow sure but I wasn't that skilled for a minute there I'd been somewhere else entirely and my body performed the feat without me it was still me but somehow enhanced I glanced at my bracelet which was down to. 5% it seemed like concentration or Focus burned as much elixir as active sparring the man running the games pointed Towards a wall of prizes I could choose from Mostly plastic or wooden toys one caught my eye immediately a small wooden airplane with dual Wings painted bright red I

smiled and pointed at it it reminded me of the photo in Damian's room it felt good to win him something something I'd earned after all what kind of wedding present did you get for a prince anyway we should celebrate Jasmine said there's a Tavern around the corner I hear they make excellent cider The Tavern was standing room only and besides the waitresses and a few girls there for entertainment it looked like we were the only women there I was glad to be wearing dark slacks and a long sleeve top I pulled the sleeves down around

my wrists to hide my marks a few curious eyes glanced us over but after a hesitant pause conversations continued and we were mostly ignored Jasmine pushed her way to the bar and pushed between two large men drinking beer from Wooden tankards four ciders she demanded the bartender raised his eyebrows at her and for a second I thought he was going to tell her to get lost but then she cued her chin with her Palm displaying her bracelet and batting her eyelashes he shook his head like he knew he was going to regret this but poured

four tall mugs with apple cider and slid them across the bar Jasmine passed out the drinks and held hers up cheers she Said to New Friends The Cider was sweet and tingled against my lips we found stools near the wall and squeezed in behind a table the bar was dark and a little Smokey it smelled like men and tobacco and something sickly sweet probably the cider brewing or wood polish large speakers were playing some kind of fast beat music with a heavy bass I could feel the vibrations through my body it made conversation difficult but

it wasn't Unpleasant at one point Jasmine grabbed kamina's hand and pulled her to the dance floor even though nobody else was dancing the men stared at first and grumbled but then a few of them joined in they smiled and formed a tight circle around the two girls I noticed most of them were dressed differently from what I'd seen so far in the city a few of the outfits seemed almost exotic a flash of red bandana a pair of gold hooped Earring traitors probably used to life on the road a conversation to my left caught my

attention and I leaned closer to Eaves drop I tell you it was the worst thing I ever saw the whole compound swallowed up by Ash dead as a graveyard slag paaw the other man said no way to tell but I'd wager not here's the thing all the citizens were still there standing in the center of the square their faces turned up towards the sky mouth open Frozen in Time like Statues I tell you it was creepy gives me goosebumps just to think about it you think the elite were involved another Rebellion the Man's eyes narrowed

he looked around I pretended to study the table I ain't going to say nothing about the elite not here in the Citadel but the compounds are supposed to be protected right that's the deal well all I know is somebody wasn't keeping up their end of the bargain I Whirled around when I heard Mary's voice Cut through the noise I said no a large man with a beard had Mary cornered against the wall with one hand on her waist come on he said you must have come here looking for something right well maybe it's me I

got what you need I grabbed his arm and pulled him backwards hands off [ __ ] I said the man looked back towards his friends and laughed well what have we got here a feisty one my favorite he grabbed my wrists and squeezed them painfully Bringing his body weight crushing into me I dropped the toy airplane I'd bought for Damian and heard it crack against the floor no I shouted reaching out a hand too late the man bent down to pick it up what's this I knew you were young but I didn't think you were

so young you'd bring toys to a bar I've got a toy you can play with he grinned loudly give it back Cina said while you can still use that hand the man looked us over Cina was almost as tall as he was all Right fine he said I didn't mean anything by it I just wanted to buy the pretty lady a drink he said nodding to Mary I put out my hand anxiously the man lifted his hand towards mine but at the last minute he gripped the red plane tightly I heard the wood snap beneath

his fingers then he dropped The Broken Pieces into my open Palm blood rushed to my ears and my teeth clenched I barely heard my bracelet beeping as the elixir In my system ignited like fire flushing my cheeks the alcohol removed my hesitation with one hand I grabbed the man by the throat and lifted him off the ground then I slammed him onto a table so hard it nearly cracked in half his brows furrowed in confusion when he saw the dark red stains on my hands what are you he asked some kind of freak engaged I

said leaning over him and you're ruining our bachelorette party he grabbed my wrists trying to Break my grip his thick muscles rippled as he tried to push me off him but he felt so so weak so feeble my bones felt like they were made of iron I flung him sideways off the table and felt a painful tug at my wrist he'd broken the clasp of my engagement bracelet he staggered to his feet clutching the bracelet in his sweaty Palms two of his friends joined him and I saw Kamina stepped to my side I clenched my

fists daring him to swing for me I suggest you give the lady back her bracelet a calm voice said most of the bar had gone silent watching the confrontation it took a second to place the speaker a man sitting at the bar his back to us unless you want to be executed for assaulting a chosen he added the bearded man's face blanched then his expression turned to one of ter Terror they're chosen he asked with sweat on his brow first time in the city of Lights huh it's an understandable Mistake probably not one their husbands

are prone to forgive however please the man said looking back at me he held the bracelet up in one hand nearly growling I didn't know I have a family I grabbed my bracelet back from him still shaking with anger my body was screaming to make him pay make him suffer it scared me he was twice my size but I could have seriously hurt him Jasmine pointed at the door and crossed her arms the man and his friends practically ran Outside in his defense the man at the bar said turning towards us chosen don't usually go

out cavor ING with us Commons that doesn't justify his behavior I growled there's no excuse for treating women like that any women I agree 100% the man said holding up his palms and smiling he had dark skin and dark stubble that looked carefully trimmed Zane he said pointing to himself and unless we want this bar to get raided by soldiers in the next 10 Minutes we should probably fix that he nodded at my bracelet I think the clasp is broken I said holding it out in front of me then it's a good thing I always

keep my tools with me he smiled he took out a thin black case and opened it up to reveal an array of thin metal tools what are you some kind of mechanic Jasmine asked I prefer the term techn he said with a smirk he took out a tiny pair of pliers and what looked like a miniature Blowtorch he held the burst of blue flame over the metal for a moment then bent it back into shape I held my wrist out to him and he snapped the clasp into place the screen flickered to life 0.0% Mary

Read you must have used the last of your elixir that was seriously badass Cina said that guy must have weighed 300 lb I wish his friends would have attacked Jasmine said in practice we're always sparring with each other I didn't realize how strong We'd become compared to Ordinary People The Covenant is meant to keep the peace Zayn frowned I don't think the king would appreciate a gang of chosen beating up on civilians they started it Jasmine Shrugged Crossing her arms there will be other chances to prove your strength the trials for example until then maybe

try to stay out of trouble this is my favorite bar I don't want it to get shut down yeah sure thanks for your help see You around Kamina said one more thing Zayn said he picked up the pieces of the red airplane and pulled out a small tube of liquid adhesive he pieced together the toy again in less than a minute he even gave the propeller a little spin before handing it back to me there he said good as new damn Jasmine said with a teasing smile you sure are good with your hands the house

was quiet and dark when I came home I was still a bit tipsy part Of me felt exhausted now that my body was drained of Elixir Another Part Of Me was buzzing with energy I had fun tonight I didn't realize how much I needed to go somewhere and be invisible at least for a while in my bedroom I unzipped my jacket then froze when I realized I wasn't alone where were you Daman said he was sitting on my bed casually hands clasped in his lap out with friends I said is that okay Master his shoulders

Stiffened and he looked away I didn't mean to snap but I was annoyed and surprised to find him in my room I've been waiting for you I got a security warning he said holding up a digital panel with a red alert sign I was worried I can take care of myself I said grabbing my pajamas if we were going to have this talk I wanted to get comfortable first he looked away when I started unbuttoning my jeans you shouldn't have to not here all humans Should be protected chosen or not what about the dead girls

I wanted to fling back at him but I bit my tongue as his words sunk in he was worried about me you can't expect me to not have any friends and just wait around at home for you to decide if you want to see me or not I glared at him I didn't want to change in front of him but there was no privacy in the room you're right he said I'm sorry I didn't think how this would be for you he Looked like he was about to say something else but he bit his tongue

I opened the door to the Wardrobe and hid behind it while I stripped off my clothes then pulled on the pajamas what did my father want from you he asked changing the subject he showed me his Cave of Bones I said I think he was trying to impress me you didn't tell him about what you told me did you the dead girls it didn't come up Damian let out a sigh of relief then leaned back And crossed his arms I sat across the room in the sofa by the window pretending to brush my hair just

so I looked busy I'm sorry about that he said about him at least he makes time for me I said I've seen him as much as I've seen you recently I wanted to give space to adjust plus I thought you might be tired after the training I know you didn't choose this I'm chosen I cut him off I'm here for you I'm Yours your property your possession right Nigel Hasn't shown any restraint or patience with Jessica the least you could do is pretend to be interested in me people are starting to talk his eyes flashed

with anger I'll never force you to do anything you're uncomfortable with is it isn't that what Elite do take what they want after what I learned in class today I had a whole new level of appreciation for the elite I knew they were strong and powerful which made them unnaturally seductive I couldn't help being drawn in By Damian's proud jaw and lean form even when he pushed me away it made me want to be closer to him but now I also knew knew they were capable of compulsion which meant I'd never know whether my feelings

were my own or if Damian was planting them in me I was terrified that my actions even my thoughts may not be my own I don't want it to be like that he said quietly leaning forward not with me not between us I raised an eyebrow at him and Crossed my arms his words made sense but I couldn't believe I was hearing them was Damian really so different from the other Elite his last word kept echoing in my brain until I whispered it back to him as a question us I asked the air felt warm

between us and my skin tingled my legs itched to close the distance and sit with him on on the bed but I stayed near the wall holding his gaze until he broke it I don't know how to do this he said suddenly standing up I mean I've never even had a girlfriend I haven't even been on a date and now this of wedding it's crazy I laughed then covered my mouth when his eyes darkened he couldn't be serious he was an elite Prince I assumed he'd had thousands of girls before but maybe he only had

to feed on them or sleep with them maybe actually talking to a common was a new challenge for him was marrying a stranger a little crazy and overwhelming sure but it was my duty it Was the law questioning it out loud would be treason there's not a lot of options for us you know I crossed my arms and leaned against the wall when I was growing up there were thousands of girls then before I knew it boom end of the world people dying getting sick and me like this too powerful too hungry dangerous a monster

dating was kind of off the table is that how you see yourself I asked as a monster what else could I see Me as his face contorted in shame and anger I'd never seen Damian like this before I didn't even know Elite could feel pain like this they always seemed so perfectly composed and invulnerable I moved gently across the room and sat next to him on the bed I put my hand next to his not quite touching but close enough to let him know I was there what would you do on a date in the

before I asked go to a movie he said with a sad smile roller Skating what's roller skating I asked never mind maybe go to a school dance I learned a dance in class want to see I grabbed his hand and pulled him to his feet I assumed the position Master saboda taught us us and spun us around the room counting 1 2 3 1 two 3 under my breath without the elixer after a few more turns I was dizzy I only went to a few dances Damian said and it was more like this he moved

his hands to the small of my back and pulled me closer Until our hips were almost touching then he slowly rocked us from side to side that's it I asked well sometimes we do this he spun me around under one hand then dipped me backwards and leaned over me it was so much like the shared memory in class it took my breath away he pulled me up and spun me closer until I was wrapped in his arms I tried to step away again but his grip was too firm pressing us together I felt him still

in Behind me and smell my hair I looked over my shoulder and saw hunger in his eyes he gasped as I shifted my hips back into his I could feel the beating of his heart the powerful Elixir flowing through his Elite veins I wanted it inside me he ran one hand slowly up my thigh and heat exploded through my body I dropped my shoulders shrugging off my sweater wanting to feel his skin on mine his eyes widened and I could see his thirst His need for me I didn't have to sleep with him but I

didn't want him to go hungry besides this is what I was here for I lifted my hair and leaned to the side revealing the cool pale skin on my neck he held my arms tightly for a second but then very slowly pried his fingers away from my body and picked up my sweater instead did I do something wrong I asked he wrapped the sweater around my shoulders don't be stupid he said I just have a lot of work to do I'm Not stupid that's not what I meant I pulled the sweater closer The Sting of

the rejection was sinking into my bones like ice I left everything my home my family to come here for you and you don't even want me is it because I'm renitent I asked don't say that word out loud he said quickly promise me whatever I said I felt like we were talking in circles if he was going to treat me like a child I was done here I said pulling out the toy airplane I got you something at the market at least them you like I pushed it into his palm and folded his fingers around

it then shoved him out of my room and turned out the light chapter 15 last night was the longest conversation Damen Hartman and I ever had he opened up to me talking about his childhood I couldn't possibly understand what he went through but I saw something A bit of humanity for a brief moment he wasn't some Immortal perfect Elite he was just a boy nervous even I didn't understand what he'd have to be nervous about and then when we danced I could feel the heat between us how much he'd wanted me and I him but

then he pulled away again downstairs the table was full of eggs and waffles and bacon I'd never finish I'd gotten in the habit of saving A napkin full of food and smuggling it down to a family of cats that lived behind the dumpsters on the ground floor the elite hardly used any and there weren't a lot of trash or disposables in the Citadel my father used to say if it's worth having it's worth keeping waste management was something else I found interesting about the Citadel Claire showed me the first time I went to the bathroom

we had flushing toilets instead of the ouse I'd Grown up with it was all done with pipes and water pressure ingenious really when I asked for a glass of orange juice Claire brought one and set it on the table her blouse hung low around her neck as she put it in front of me low enough for me to see the round holes in her neck bite marks my skin felt ice cold apparently since my blood hadn't been good enough to him Damian slated his thirst at another well because I could could give Him what he

needed I felt disgusted both by him and by myself Claire was cute innocent and young too young I wondered if that was Damian's type or if she'd just been around and willing but I was willing too damn it scared maybe awkward around my betrothed sure I wondered how long it had been going on or whether they were sneaking around behind my back why would they need to even sneak Damian's a prince he can do what he Wants the rest of breakfast tasted like ash in my mouth I was still seething when the door opened I

thought it was Daman at first and my pulse raced I hated how my heart betrayed me getting all excited by the mere thought of him but it was just Tobias he smiled but his face fell when he saw my confusion what are you doing here I asked Damian didn't tell you I was coming then must have slipped his mind I said we have an appointment to get you fitted for what I Asked why don't we keep it a surprise Tobias said with a smirk we went downstairs cutting through the narrow Alleyways towards the center of

the city then branched off into a neighborhood I hadn't yet explored shop windows were filled with mannequins and large rolls of brightly colored fabric my mom would have loved it here finally we came to a large Shop with a window full of elegant dresses Penelope was standing outside Waiting for us her face lit up when she saw me and she gave me a hug hug I didn't know you were going to be here I said well it would be a little awkward letting my husband dress you she teased plus how could I miss a dress

fitting for The Royal Wedding that's why we're here I asked a dress not just any dress Tobias said this is going to be the event of a lifetime they're going to broadcast the ceremony to all the com compounds people Will remember the dress of Prince Hartman's chosen until the day they die my mouth turned dry and I pressed my lips together Penelope punched his arm what two moreid Tobias said all I meant was it's never just about the dress after last night I wasn't sure how I felt about getting married to Damian little girls would

watch see me in a pretty dress and long for their chance to get chosen King Richard was using the wedding as Propaganda and if this dress was so important where was Damian did he even care about the wedding I'm not sure he even wants to marry me I grumbled of course he does Penelope said Tobias looked at the sky for a minute then pinched the bridge of his nose you know he used to swear he'd never choose not in a million years so why did he I asked that's a secret he hasn't shared with me

Tobias said but something about you changed his mind that's how I Know how special you are Daman doesn't make mistakes and he doesn't make decisions lightly but he also plays his cards close to his chest and is slow to share his emotions give him time in the meantime now that he's chosen his father won't let him back out this wedding is going forward and the King has determined to make it a grand event that all begins with the right dress but what about the testing the Trials what if I fail that won't happen Penelope said

grabbing my arm arm come on it'll be fun we entered the shop and a bald tailor with a curled mustache stood me on a pedestal to take my measurements Tobias sat across from me in a comfortable looking chair while Penelope held up white dresses from a long rack of them most were rejected on site and ended up back on the rack but Tobias approved a few with a nod of his head when there were five penelo and I Went into the changing room so she could help put them on the first fit like a straight

jacket hugging my hips and wrapping around my shoulders and arms it was a challenge to get into and a relief to take off the second was far more comfortable it narrowed around my waist but hung Loosely down to my ankles with elegant folds and embroidered straps covering both shoulders the third was strapless the bodice hugging my curves and Defying Gravity The white Frills fell like a cascading waterfall but the low neckline left me feeling exposed after getting into each dress Penelope would hold the train while I stepped out into the viewing room the sequins and

embellishments sparkled under the bright lights as I turned around under tobias's thought full gaze I know he wasn't looking at me he was just seeing the dress but I still felt like I was being Scrutinized it reminded me of the choosing ceremony bringing up feelings of powerlessness and fear by the time I'd finished trying on all the dresses I was anxious to get back outside for some fresh air which do you like Penelope asked does it matter is it's your day toaya said we want you to feel comfortable at least what's comfortable about being displayed

in a white dress to a world full of Ash and blood I asked I held up my hands turning over my Fingers to look at the jagged red stains going up to my wrists in the compound my loose fitting dark clothes not to mention perennial layer of dirt kept the marks muted but with the daily baths and elixir they stood out angrily against my pale skin can't I wear gloves at least it'll play better if you don't Tobias said your marks make you unique but they also humanize you you're chosen fragile but protected imperfect but

loved don't Worry Penelope said pulling back my hair into a bun you still look amazing most people won't even see them and so what if they do I frowned I'd been hiding my marks my whole life and now the king wanted to put them on display to the world is that why Daman chose me because of my obvious imperfection because the Optics would play better Prince Hartman choosing someone so disfigured so Marred is that why he told me not to hide who I was we tried on a few more dresses they were all gorgeous but

none of them felt like me in the end we agreed on the sleeveless dress with the tight bodice even though I found it too revealing I also loved the feel of my bare skin against the air and the extra Mobility it was feather light and the skirt FL blowed away from my hips in a straight line just scraping the floor and concealing my feet but without heavy Folds of fabric to trip over at least I could move and breathe Penelope pulled my hair up into a clip and pushed me in front of a standing mirror

up close the dress was impressive somehow both magnificent and yet understated the Hem of the dress was embroidered with sparkly patterns like Winter's Frost and matched the embroidery on the bodice a thin white band pulled the fabric in around my Waist decorated with silver filigree wow a deep voice behind me made my neck spin Damien stood in the doorway looking speechless unlike Tobias who had been looking at me like I was an art installment Daman 's eyes were filled with undisguised appreciation that made my skin flush red you can't be here Penelope said pushing him

out of the room it's bad luck for the groom to see the bride in her dress before the Wedding I was next door getting fitted for my suit I just wanted to talk to Emily for a minute I stared him down waiting for him to say something but he didn't seem to appreciate the audience he looked away and rubbed the back of his neck I'll wait outside he said finally but get changed when you're done I have a surprise for you Penelope helped me out of my dress then left the room while I put on

my regular clothes again dark fabric jeans and a long Sleeve gray sweater Daman and Tobias waited outside until Penelope and I joined them so what's this surprise Mr Hartman Penelope said or is it something private just for your bride you can all come Damen said it'll be fun I promise he smiled and there was excitement in his eyes I hadn't seen before Tobias and Penelope held hands and walked in front of us giving us space to be alone I'm sorry about last night Damian said quietly it's fine I muttered no It's really not I mean

we're supposed to be getting married and I haven't been very nice to you I didn't want you to feel forced or pressured I wanted you to accept me as I am not for what I represent but I realized that's never going to happen if I keep pushing you away so I thought maybe we should get to know each other but no formal ball no audience just us you sure you don't want to invite CLA instead I sniped narrowing my eyes who's Claire he asked Confused my maid I said brown hair this High I was under

the impression you knew each other anette's daughter he asked I don't think I've ever spoken to her if you like her though you can invite her next time Claire was Annette's daughter his answer confused me he wasn't acting guilty he was either the best liar in the world or he hadn't been with CLA last night which meant I was mad at him for something he didn't do but then where did she get those bite marks from We entered some kind of public park with carefully sculpted trees and colored playground equipment two natural waterfalls fell into

a stream children ran by with colorful balloons and I heard tinkling music coming from a truck selling ice cream it was an oasis surrounded by tall gleaming buildings Damen led us to a man in front of a portable stand with what looked like a shoe store but all the shoes were the same and they had wheels on them oh No you you didn't Tobias said with a huge grin daman's eyes lit up with a mischievous glint I found them in storage he said too much this is awesome Tobias said punching his shoulder I'm just surprised

you know how to roller skate well it's been a century but how hard can it be Daman said he put his hand on the small of my back and guided me forward towards the curb may I he said reaching towards my sneakers I nodded and he pulled them off the man Helped him choose skates the right size and Damien tugged them on over my socks his fingertips on my bare ankles sent Sparks of electricity shooting through my legs he tied up the laces then put on his own skates and stood up awkwardly I got to

my feet t tting the weight and feeling the wheels turn under me I started rolling forward and waved my arms frantically Damen caught my arms and held me still pulling me against him just take it slow he said one foot at a Time but instead of stepping down Glide forward he showed me what he meant moving a few Paces away and then turning around to face me again people used to do this for fun I asked glaring at him he reached for my hand pulling me forward after a few minutes I got the hang of

it we made a few wide circles going in a loop around the flat pavement the wind teasing my dark hair enjoying yourself Penelope asked as she raced past us with Tobias hot on her heels Maybe I said though I couldn't keep the grin off my face I tried to turn to watch them almost slipped then froze until I caught my balance people were gathering on the grass clapping their hands and cheering as we rolled past should we give them a show Damien asked I'm concentrating too hard on not eating pavement thanks very much but Damen

grabbed my waist and pulled me faster until every everything blurred my pulse pounded in my chest and I gripped Damian's arm tighter then he flung me forward and vanished I screamed as I raced forward completely out of control heading straight towards the ice cream truck at the last second Damian appeared in front of me catching Me Softly in his arms you [ __ ] I said punching his chest he laughed along with the crowd as I blew the hair out of my face then he turned towards the ice cream truck and ordered four cones he

passed one to me and handed two to Tobias when I turned around a little girl was looking up at me with round eyes she didn't say anything but she eyed my ice cream she reminded me of my sister so I took a plastic spoon and offered it to her want a bite I asked her eyes lit up as she took the spoon and devoured the ice cream three boys appeared behind her like magic uh-oh Tobias said you've started a dangerous precedent you can't give ice cream to all of them I'm sorry I said to the

boys I don't have any money with me I turned back to Daman in pouting my lips he rolled his eyes then handed something shiny to the man and yelled free ICE scam for everybody in seconds we were surrounded by kids of all ages and more than a few adults Damian and Tobias who were taller took cones and popsicles from the truck window and passed them out when all the Cones were gone they were left empty-handed what happened to your ice Cream Penelope asked it's fine Tobias said here you can have a bite of mine Penelope

said offering her cone when Tobias leaned down to take a bite she thrust it up quickly smearing his face with ice cream then she giggled and dashed away you did not just do that Tobias said dashing after her I grinned looking up at Damian through my lashes you'd have to catch me first he said with a smirk he rolled away from me tauntingly I gave Chase but he was so Fast he skated circles around me then he skated right in front of me going backwards just Out Of Reach I didn't see the stick behind him

until it was too late by the time I yelled look out he'd already tripped his eyes went wide as his feet flew up in the air kicking wildly but he couldn't regain his balance he fell hard and skitted to a stop I tried to slow down but was moving too fast and tumbled down on top of him he caught me deftly Cradling my head in his hands so I wouldn't hit the pavement for a second I lay there on top of him breathless then he burst out laughing I haven't had this much fun since he

paused then looked straight into my eyes never he said softly brushing a strand of hair behind my ear I've never had this much fun the mood shifted and my breath hitched we were so close I could see yellow flakes in his green eyes they sparkled like gold dust Me neither I whispered he helped me up but didn't let go of my hand I looked up in Surprise and he held my gaze we continued skating but slowly this time I've been angry and frustrated for too long refusing to take any joy in the Citadel rebelling against

my father you asked me yesterday what I'd do on a date in the before I realized there's so much I could show you share with you about how it used to be you didn't choose to be here but the Least we can do is try not to be miserable right I smiled at him but something else Drew my attention away I wasn't sure what it was at first Penelope was in tobias's arms but he was looking away towards the street and his mus muscles tensed I followed his gaze and saw a black van coming up

the road get down he shouted there was a moment of pause like time Stood Still a few drawn out notes of music from the ice cream truck a scoop of ice cream falling Off a young girl's cone then the screams as the black van exploded into a ball of Flames the force of the explosion knocked me off my feet Damian checked me for wounds then shouted stay here and vanished into the smoke Figures were running towards and away from the truck and I heard the sound of screeching metal a young boy stumbled past us his

arm dripping with blood I gazed through The thick smoke my head throbbing the black van was on its side it had slid off the street and smashed through a park bench I recognized it from algrave it was one of the vehicles that came by every month to collect the compound's tribute a pint of blood from every healthy adult the Vans also delivered the elite blood the compounds needed for the weekly renewal Services the windshield was cracked and it looked like the tires had blown out It was still smoking surrounded in shattered glass and broken vials

of blood and elixir men dressed in dark clothes appeared out of nowhere their faces hidden behind black masks they moved quickly snapping open the back door of the van and lifting out boxes of Elixir as people realized what was happening they got down on their knees trying to soak up the Fallen elixir with scraps of fabric some even put their Lips to the ground and tried to drink it off the concrete despite the broken glass moments later the royal guard arrived they hauled people off the streets grabbing them and dragging them away from the wreckage

they tied their hands behind their backs with bits of plastic strap and left them face down in the grass some resisted normally the guard would easily be twice as strong as any normal citizen thanks to extra rations of Elixir but the men who' drunk The Elixir could now hold their own as soon as the guards realized this they pulled out their swords I saw one soldier hack a man's arm off a woman jumped on his back clawing at his eyes I couldn't understand what was happening this was cha chaos Anarchy how could everything have been

so peaceful only minutes before I looked for Damian and Tobias but couldn't see them they must have gone after the men In masks another Elite I didn't recognize appeared on the scene cutting through the crowd like butter I could barely see the flash of his sword he moved so quickly but I knew it was there from the way bodies were dropping around him I gasped as one of the men in masks pointed a pistol at him guns were illegal in the compounds not even the guards had them the man pulled the trigger and the elite

looked surprised clutching at his chest with a pained Expression he stood still long enough for several other men to stab into him with knives pinning him to the ground and tearing at his him ruthlessly no I shouted one of the men looked up at me and our eyes connected the blood drained from my face even from this distance even though a mask covered half his face I still recognized him I'd recognize Trevor anywhere he was at my side in a moment he grabbed my hand and dragged me around the corner into a dark Alley away

from the conflict you shouldn't be here he growled it's not safe I was too stunned to speak so instead I punched him in the jaw what the hell are you doing I asked people are getting hurt you could have hurt me he pulled off the mask his face full of guilt I had no idea you'd be here and nobody was supposed to get hurt we meant to get the Elixir and get out before the guards showed up you're an idiot I Hesed they'll kill you for this we're doing This for you he snapped back frowning

and all the Chosen and all the people in the compounds the elite they aren't what you think they've been lying to us but don't worry I'll stop this you won't have to marry him what do you mean my breath caught in my throat and my chest felt pain painfully tight someone will contact you soon we'll take care of everything one more thing your mom gave me this I told her I wouldn't get a chance to deliver it but she made me Take it things have been bad in the compound since you left and she's getting

worse I don't think she has much time left he squeezed a note into my hands and then he kissed me I was so surprised I didn't pull away his lips were hungry rough and his stubble scraped my skin then he ran faster than I'd ever seen him move before faster than humanly possible chapter 16 by the time I made it back to the Park the smoke was clearing and the fight was over the stabbed Elite leaned against the truck being cared for by a medic in a white uniform and sipping from a blood pack he

must have gotten from the transport guards had restrained all of the people who'd been trying to scoop up or save the splattered Elixir but my eye was drawn to Damian he was cradling a small girl in his arms and his wrists were Bleeding I ran to him relief washed over his face when he saw me there the Stars he said I couldn't find you I thought maybe you're hurt I said when I was close enough let me take her it's all right he said she was injured trampled in the chaos I think he nodded to

her leg which had a deep cut as I watched the bleeding stopped and the skin started healing itself she gasped and her pupils dilated she reached for Daman arm again wanting more you fed her I Asked she's not the only one Tobias said coming up behind us he must have fed a dozen of the injured we have Medics for that you know they were in pain Daman said putting the girl down I just I didn't want them to suffer Tobias gave him a strange look and rolled his eyes Okay Mother Teresa Tobias said but you're

the Crown Prince and we need to get you inside and safe can you please escort your bride home so we can take care of this let the royal guard do Their job are all these people getting arrested I asked looking over the group on the lawn there were nearly 50 people including dozens of kids and elderly their hands were tied behind them with ftic bands they're traitors one of the royal guards answered insurgents unlike the round helmets and face masks most of the guards wore this man's hat had a leather brim and displayed a red

star symbol on the front they're citizens Captain Smith Damien Said they still deserve our protection until they've been tried and found guilty the man bowed low under Daman gaze of course your highness he took off his hat and backed away slowly most of them didn't do anything wrong I said it was the men in masks not the citizens you should be going after them extra rations of Elixir are forbidden for a reason Tobias said it can make humans unstable hostile even we'll keep an eye on them until they've Sobered up and they'll be questioned they

are witnesses after all but then you'll let them go I asked that's up to the King Tobias said but yes most of them will go free probably in the next 24 hours now take Daman home please he needs to feed Daman was leaning against a bench looking ill he looked paler than usual almost sickly how much of his blood had he given away I put an arm around his waist and led him away from the sight of the Accident every few Corners I'd ask for directions and he'd Grunt and Nod his head by the time

we made it back to his apartment he was dragging his feet and slurring his words and he was leaning heavily against me I brought him to his room and shut the door my heart pounding Tobias told me to bring him home and feed him did that mean from me I leaned him against the bed and stood there awkwardly unsure what I was supposed to Do next daman's eyelids fluttered then he pointed to a tall white cupboard in the corner I opened it up and found rows of bottles made of dark brown glass and rimmed with

silver ornamentation in the center was the king's seal a snake wearing a crown winding around a chalice it was the same symbol on the black van I grabbed two bottles and returned to daman's bedside he popped One open and drank it greedily a drop of crimson blood rolled down his Chin and I turned away both relieved and disappointed he wasn't feeding on me instead by the time he finished the second bottle his cheeks had regained a bit of color and his eyes were sharp and clear again I looked out the window at the fading light

thinking about Trevor how was he involved with the Rebels the king warned me about them but I hadn't wanted to believe it was possible who would be stupid enough to rebel against the elite and why do I disgust you Damen Asked quietly I turned back towards him his expression was pained haunted I took a cloth and wiped the blood off his chin how could he disgust me his proud jawline His Kind eyes he was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen why would you ask that I asked it's unnatural what we are you've never seen

us what we're capable of you just see us as strong fast powerful but we're dangerous you should be scared of us all humans should be instead They're attracted to us it's a curse is that why you've never chosen I asked I never believed in my father's system all these laws and rituals turning obedience into a religion no one should have that much control especially if it's all based on a lie I didn't want to report that to be a part of it not choosing was my silent Rebellion but then when I saw Nigel choose you

knowing what he'd do to you I couldn't let that Happen so you chose to save me I said slowly but not because you wanted me he nodded and the breath went out of my lungs I don't want you to be here because I chose you I want you to choose me not because of who my father is or to save your species or because you believe in the Covenant or you feel it's your duty to be a good citizen I want you to want me for who I am maybe I'm the naive one you wouldn't

want me if you knew the truth what I was really capable of what I've done so show me I said Damian looked like he was about to argue and his dark brows furled but then he brought his wrist up to his lips and tore a jagged hole releasing a few drops of blood the wound healed in seconds he raised his wrist up with a bitter grin the scent of blood rather than grossing me out attracted me to him I could smell the Elixir but stronger muskier alive I hesitated for a moment wondering What memory Damian

was about to share and whether I'd be strong enough to witness it then I took his arm and licked the blood off his wrist with my tongue feeling the warmth in my mouth the vision hit me immediately I could hear daman's voice describing the scene my father turned me in high school he said something was coming and I had to be prepared he told me to stay home but I was too excited I was so strong so Fast I wanted to show off in front of a girl I liked so I went to school to

show her what I could do I thought I could get her to like me I'd always liked her but with my veins full of Elixir my desire for her was uncontrollable she was afraid of me I couldn't separate the desire from The Thirst I bit her before I knew what I was doing when others tried to stop me I killed them too in my head I could see the blonde Girl with a purple background a sweet face in a hallway full of lockers Damen looked younger smaller but still handsome I felt the blood lust rushing

through him and then the crushing guilt and loss I felt him crumble into a ball in the hallway the floor slick with blood with Fallen teachers and classmates around him I pulled out of the vision with a shudder you see and that was just the beginning my father's peace is a lie it covers up what we Really are that's why I've never wanted it this system but it's the only one I know and at least it keeps me from killing people I love hurting Innocents I hate my father but I hate myself more my heart

was pounding and my desire for him the guilt he'd been carrying his vulnerability it just made me want him more or maybe it was The Lure of more Elixir it was hard to separate the two it's not your fault I said leaning forward and cupping my palm Around his face his eyes widened and he grabbed my wrist painfully but he didn't pull away his eyes searched my face with a question I leaned forward until his red lips were just inches from mine but then there was a pounding on the door he shook his head and

pushed me away roughly enter he said one of the royal guard stepped into the doorway we caught the rebels he said Damian's eyes hardened tomorrow is renewal you'll be expected to attend all the chosen will I'll take care of the rebels don't worry they'll pay for what they did today the renewal ceremony was in the largest Chapel I'd ever seen it was directed ly behind the main Palace on top of a hill at the center of the city CLA helped me pick out a dress it had to be appropriately Regal given my station but also

modest so it didn't look like I was trying too hard Tobias had given her pretty clear instructions I would have worn a burlap Sack for all I cared I couldn't stop thinking about the rebels Daman hadn't returned since the night before for did they catch Trevor if so what would they do to him the thought made my lungs burn painfully Claire pulled the laces on the back of the dress firmly tugging them tighter until they squeezed my ribs when she was done she let me look in the mirror my skin was practically glowing it must

be from the extra Elixir I'd consumed last night when I'd fed on Daman my cheeks blushed at the intimacy of the moment but then ice coursed through my veins at the memory he' shared he was only a kid when he accidentally slaughtered his crush and classmates no wonder he didn't want to feed no wonder he thought he was a monster I don't know how I'd live with that much guilt the dress was a classic onepiece navy blue with a light lightweight skirt And black sequins and Beads ornamenting the embroidered top and shoulder straps Claire tossed

my hair a bit and let it fall to one side in heavy curls it looked healthy and cleaner than I'd ever seen it it looked like the whole city was on its way to Renewal the chapel in algrave could only fit a 100 people at a time I couldn't imagine how all these people were going to fit until we were close close enough to the Monumental building to see its full scale even Though it was dwarfed by the palace next door it had an imposing dignity on its own the dark stone walls were decorated with

motifs and Engravings gargoyles and horned animal heads jutted from the facade quietly inspecting the crowds as they passed through the moon-shaped doors I noticed a few of the flashing red lights I'd come to recognize as surveillance cameras which made me think again of the two girls I'd Seen if humans were being killed inside the Citadel surely someone would have noticed I wondered where the footage went or who was watching it suddenly I remembered Zane if anybody knew it would be him I reminded myself to ask if I ever saw him again the inside of the

cathedral took my breath away towering walls of stone arched impossibly high above massive hanging chandeliers with hundreds of tiny light bulbs hung solemnly from the ceiling the large Hall Had four Columns of polished wood pews that stretched all the way forward to the altar there must have been room for a thousand people I made my way to the front and saw Mary with her Elite then Jasmine I nodded and they gave me tense Smiles as I passed apparently this was for couples or at least a chance for the chosen to be on their best behavior

in algrave renewal was as much about socializing as anything else at least before and after the Service but today a particularly ominous hush seemed to weigh over the proceedings despite all the people I couldn't hear anything except the shuffle of footsteps and the occasional cough which echoed through the Nave while waiting for Daman I lost myself in the large oil paintings flanking the hall they told the story I was familiar with the trials and tribulations of the before the plagues and mutations the discovery of a cure The Elixir and then the formation of the compounds

one painting showed King Richard himself leading the survivors into the first compounds safe and protected this was the history I'd learned but Damian said his father's peace was based on a lie was there another version of the story movement caught my eye and King Richard appeared suddenly in front of the altar dressed in a dark suit the crowd gasped at his appearance but I knew he' just used his Speed to move into place undetected behind him the king's symbol was ornamented in Gold relief in front of a painting of him bleeding from his wrists into

a golden chalice with an Exquisite look of pain on his face his sacrifice suffering for the many I frowned I'd never realized it before but I was starting to understand why Daman resisted the system it was all pageantry designed to impress and Amaze today the king's face was tense With furled eyebrows and hard lines around his eyes it made him look older he came to the center of the altar surrounded by six priests on each side dressed in purple and black robes with silver embroidery he was as still as a statue until the last of

the congregation had entered then the King's Guard filed in lining the walls and closing the heavy doors shot behind them with a bang the head curate raised a golden chalice and Repeated the welcoming liturgy like in algrave the curates had tightly braided patches of hair on the top of their heads but here they were taller and much more elaborate the head curates hairdo was larger than his whole head and looked like a giant pine cone along with the purple robes he was also wearing long gold eyelashes that flashed as he spoke we give thanks to

our protectors who saved us he said and we celebrate Our salvation with the renewal one drop of blood to purify our bodies to races dependent on each other for survival now Thrive as one as long as the peace is maintained live together or die apart the crowd answered I felt the words on my lips but they left a sour taste in my mouth the front two rows stood preparing to approach The Altar and take the sacrament but the king held up his palms for silence and everyone returned to their seats there will be no renewal

Today the king announced he spoke softly but his voice carried to the very back of the hall and seemed to Echo subdued Whispers Rose from the congregation as I'm sure you've heard by now yesterday a vicious Act of terrorism was perpetrated against one of our transport Vehicles even worse wor an elite was savagely attacked by the rebels inside the Citadel he nodded towards the other side of the church and I recognized the tall Elite from yesterday he was staring at Mary and I saw her smile at him I realized I'd seen him before in algrave

he was the elite who chosen Mary silver bullets the king said holding one up to the light as you can see Stanley is just fine so maybe we can put that particular Superstition to rest as for the possession of illegal Firearms however that is a grave offense The Elixir is a privilege not a right and it must be earned the price is peace And this week the peace was shattered for the first time in nearly a century unfortunately even if I wanted to forgive such a grave trespass these Rebels have stolen this week's shipment of

Elixir they have stolen from you and broken the Covenant that protects us all I do have a little bit left the king said reaching into his dark jacket and holding up a small glass vial it was Similar to the ones we used in training this whole vial will go to the first person who gives my guards information about the rebels who they are where they are hiding or anything leading to the location of the stolen Elixir I guarantee you we'll find them anyway and punishment will be SW sft if you know the identity of any

of the rebels and speak up now you'll be rewarded however if you conceal any information from us after today we will Consider you accomplice in crimes against the state and you all know the punishment for attacking an elite I calculated quickly in my head two drops each for the 13 chosen at at least 26 drops more than enough to heal my mother the king nodded to the side and two of his soldiers brought forward a man dressed in black with a hood over his head and his hands tied behind his back as you can see

we've already captured one of the rebels he's already given us Plenty of information so if you think you're protecting someone by keeping silent you're wrong my pulse raced and sweat beaded on my brow the king removed the bag to show the man's face and I let out a breath I didn't know I'd been holding not Trevor live together or die apart King Richard said live together or Die the congregation started giving the standard reply but cut off suddenly as the king tore the man's head from his body he Held the bloody stump up with the

face towards the congregation its jaw hanging open in a Silent Scream bile Rose in my throat as the man's body twitched tumbling down the red carpet steps of the altar onto the dark Stones there were shouts from the congregation people covered their faces with their hands or bit their fists to Keep from Crying Out I saw a few crying silently but they were the weak ones Most of the congregation kept their faces blank staring Straight Ahead as if nothing had happened one more thing the king said we'll be turning off the purification engines for the

next 3 days as a reminder of what life would be like without the elite here to protect you remember the Covenant is an agreement that must be honored on both sides he tossed the head in front of him and it rolled down the center aisle before finally coming to rest near the back of The church I felt dizzy and the room was spinning but a figure caught my attention one of the curates confusion overwhelmed me for a second trying to place him but then I realized why he looked so familiar he was the man I'd

seen talking to Trev in algrave the man I'd seen outside our Caravan just before the accident the one I'd chased into Madame breezing House of pleasure instead of his Long Jacket and Knitted cap he was wearing purple robes and a curates elaborate hairstyle he looked up and locked eyes with me for a long moment moment then hurried through the front doors I knew in my gut he was one of the rebels all I had to do was Point him out and claim the reward his life in exchange for my mother's but what evidence did I

have other than seeing him talk to Trevor and knowing Trevor was one of the Terrorists giving up the curate would mean exposing Trevor I pushed through the crowd after him towards the door my dress felt hot and sticky against my skin and the cool air outside made me realize how much I'd been sweating inside after the king's display of force I heard angry Whispers around me as people grumbled about missing this week's dose of Elixir one woman's voice was louder than the others it's not fair she said the chosen get All all the Elixir they

want while we're punished I glared at her and she froze when she realized I'd heard her she bowed low begging forgiveness but I ignored her turning back to search for the curate I almost lost him in the crowd but then caught a glimpse of his robe disappearing around a corner down a side street I hesitated before following looking to see if anyone else had noticed us if this man was a rebel and Linked to Trev I didn't want to bring extra attention to him not yet but I had to know who he was hands grabbed

me and covered my mouth when I turned the corner the curate pulled me into the Shadows under the awning of a closed shop adrenaline flared through my body and I pushed him back with surprising Force he hit the wall with a thud and let out a low groan easy princess he said I just wanted to know why you're following me You're one of them aren't you I asked one of the rebels his face paled and he tugged at his collar uncomfortably I saw you I said in algrave with Trevor then just before our car was

attacked on the way to the Citadel you did it didn't you you stole the Elixir he looked around nervously then grabbed my arm and pulled me closer we can't talk here he said it's not safe for either of us this uniform makes me Invisible but you stand out he said looking over my dark dress just then alarms rang from everywhere at once his eyes went wide with fear and I covered my ears as Panic flooded through me what's that I asked they're turning off the purification engines he said we have to get inside quickly wait

I said grabbing his arm I have questions see that bridge over there he asked pointing down the hill at a steeply arched bridge over one of the Streams that cut through the city there's a dirt path to climb down and a small platform underneath it meet me there at midnight you're crazy I said I'm not going anywhere with you he sighed and reached into his pocket then pulled out a slip of paper my pulse rised as I unfolded it and saw my mother's handwriting Emily this is Marcus you can trust him it's time you learn

the truth about who you are I'm sorry I couldn't Tell you earlier I pray I'll see you again but if not stay safe you are more special than you could ever know and it's been the privilege of my life to see you grow into the woman you've become what's she talking about I asked what does she mean if I see you again is she okay is the sickness worse I'll tell you everything tonight the man said what about the ash I asked we'll take care of of it he squeezed my arm once then left down

the Opposite direction I waited a moment taking a deep breath and trying to steady myself Marcus was a curate and a rebel and he knew my mother how was she connected to all this and what did she mean the truth about who you are the crowds had dispersed so I saw Damien easily once I'd returned to the flat Courtyard in front of the cathedral his tall lean form stood out in stark contrast against the wide open space he looked relieved to see me are You all right he asked putting his hands on my shoulders you

disappeared after the service his blue eyes were wide and full of concern my throat tightened and my Palms started sweating I hated lying but I knew I couldn't tell him the truth I felt sick I lied after what your father did in there guilt flashed across his features and a hint of anger he's always had a flare for the dramatic he said Frowning a white flake of Ash fell between us then another landed in my hair Daman reached up and pulled it out gently turning his eyes up to the sky which was quickly darkening come

we have to get you home quickly chapter 17 I gazed out the window at the clumps of dark ash filling the square below a few bundled figures hurried home leaving Footsteps in the blanket of soot and Ember on the ground an old old woman With a cane paused clutching her throat and gasping for breath someone grabbed her arm and ushered her inside a woman chased after a young boy who'd gone out to retrieve his ball she picked him up and rushed back inside covering her mouth with her Shaw even though I was inside I could

feel the burning in my lungs and remember the taste of The Poisoned Ash in my throat what are you thinking Damen said from across the room I was still Wearing the dark blue dress Claire picked out for the renewal ceremony I wanted to change into something more comfortable but for some reason I also didn't want to be alone I followed Daman into the living room a wide room with a piano and a billiard's table the servants had already lit a fire and I liked the way the warm light sparkled against the shiny fabric of my

dress it's not fair I answered quickly they didn't do anything wrong they moved to The Citadel for security stability they're loyal citizens but some of them attacked the shipment and stole Elixir Damian said the Covenant only works if both sides follow the rules but how does this help I asked gesturing at the ash falling into the City we locked down the city immediately after the explosion which means some of the rebels are still here and The Elixir is probably still here too they're just Hidden did that mean Trevor was trapped in the Citadel I crossed

my arms to keep my hands from shaking so this is what I asked just a plan to flush them out get neighbors to turn them in Damian Shrugged poking the fire with an iron hook he'd taken off his jacket and loosened his tie but still looked uncomfortably dashing they broke the law he said with a dangerous gleam in his eye they must be punished my skin chilled imagining What kind of punishments the elite could inflict you don't approve he asked raising one eyebrow I just I don't understand why would they attack now the compounds keep

us safe from the Ash and the slag paaw they're protected what could they hope to achieve other than this the city was almost entirely swallowed up now by the burning embers and dark gray Ash not everyone agrees with the Covenant with the choosing Damian said Darkly they'd rather live Underground like rats carrying death and disease and be free then submit I didn't know what I believed anymore I'd always been a good citizen I went to Renewal my family didn't have much but I'd never known violence not since my first incident with Nigel in the woods

if Damian hadn't saved me I might have died in that colorless field my blood staining the dead grass is that how most elite acted when they Weren't being observed I always thought the compounds protected us from the Ash and the slag paaw I never realized the Covenant protected us from the elite themselves did that make them Our Saviors or captives what if the elite broke the Covenant first I blurted those dead girls I told you Elite don't kill people Damian grunted they aren't supposed to I said but if the elite broke the rules and killed

Innocents wouldn't the humans Have the right to revolt Daman pulled away in Surprise then looked at me like he was seeing me for the first time he reached into a cabinet and grabbed two glasses he handed one to me then grabbed a bottle of whiskey I held my glass up as he poured then watched him sip from his glass and make a face I like the taste he Shrugged we can drink but we can't get drunk trust me I've tried he dropped some ice into our cups then leaned back on the sofa and put his

feet Up on the table when Injustice becomes law he said staring into the fire resistance becomes Duty what I asked I took a sip from the whiskey and felt the burn at the back of my throat it's something one of the early presidents said a moral argument for revolution Damien said and you figured it out on your own so you agree I asked Elite don't kill humans in our compounds in the wild somewhere maybe sure but they can't do it in the Compounds that would defeat the whole system system it would ruin the point of

everything so hypothetically if a tyrant commanded obedience without providing useful benefits in return and also inflicted cruel and unjust penalties on its citizens then yes I think people have a right to rise up if the weak and innocent are being trampled and nobody else is doing anything about it I could sympathize with the rebels My eyes widened at the admission I looked around hunting for the blinking red lights or any indication we were being monitored I half expected the royal guard to burst in how could he even say that out loud I can sympathize with

them Damian continued with a sad grin but that doesn't make them right you don't know how it was before I never supported my father's plans the Covenant the choosing none of it so yes I studied government political Theory I buried Myself in my study I read everything I could get my hands on but no challenge in history is as great as the one we're now facing it's not just a war it's a possible Extinction event no other political system had to deal with the bloodlust or the fact that one Elite is stronger than a hundred

men or the fact that Elixir is so addictive humans will follow an elite to the ends of the Earth just to tear them to Pieces what you saw today in church was nothing imagine Being attacked by a thousand humans at once an army desperate for a small taste of your blood to take away the pain and suffering of the ash to protect their amilies and loved ones imagine having to kill dozens hundreds of humans just to survive he trembled overcome with emotion and turned his back on me to look out the window there was a

crack of thunder and red cracks of Fire split through the black sky like rivers of burning Lava I put my arm on his shoulder but he pulled away Part of Me one wondered if this was some kind of test either way I didn't know what I was supposed to say next my father's system may not be perfect Damen said finally but if it's capable of producing Someone Like You it can't be that bad someone like me I asked I didn't care about anything before I was free but I held myself above I never got close

to the the humans but being around you being with You it's given me something to protect something to live for but also something to lose he turned to face me framed by the glow of the fire and the burning embers falling outside the window there was a light in his eyes an intensity I'd never seen before so you see for the first time I recognize the value in my father's system even if I sympathize with the rebels there's nothing I could do about it because I have no better solution to The one we've got there

is no alternative so it's either this or War every person in the Citadel every human in the compounds would be slaughtered and then the elite would slowly starve to death it would be the end of everything what was he saying that he believed in his father's utopian Vision just when my faith had been badly shaken King Richard decapitated that Rebel like he was decorking a bottle of wine I couldn't get the image out of my head The Man's eyes blinking in Surprise the bloody stump that used to be his neck it could have been Trevor

it could have been me after all just before coming to the Citadel hadn't I also tried to steal extra rations of Elixir to save my mother so what are you going to do I asked quietly the Ash will keep everyone inside then we'll check door too we'll find the rebels and kill them it's the only way to keep you safe my skin chilled suddenly and I couldn't breathe Damen was going to find rev and kill him but what if they aren't trying to overthrow the system I asked what if they just needed Elixir to save

a dying relative what if they were just like me it doesn't matter Daman said slamming his fist on the table it cracked under the force but I stood my ground won't killing the rebels just give others a reason to fight once the Rebellion has been put down it'll buy us a few Decades of Peace we've done it before what do You mean before I asked never mind Damen said nothing then his eyes softened and he pulled me closer holding my shoulders I understand why you feel bad for the rebels it's a sign of what a

good person you are but these words they're treasonous you can't talk about this to any anyone else if you were involved in any way with the rebels I wouldn't be able to protect you not even from my Father promise me you understand I nodded he stared into my eyes a moment longer then he grabbed a long dark coat strapped his sword to his belt and headed for the front door I'm going to help the guard with the search stay here don't let anybody in and whatever you do don't go outside I retreated to my room

and turned on the lamp flashes of Sky fire lit the room up with orange light followed by cracks of Thunder that made The room tremble I lay in bed staring at the ceiling trying not to feel terrified about the fact my fiance was out hunting my best friend Trevor tried to teach me how to fish when I was 10 he said it was all about patience about picking the right spot and then waiting for the fish I didn't have the patience for it but Trevor could sit there for hours so how had he become fool

Hardy enough to join the Rebels but I knew the answer he told me himself he was here for me part of me was angry at his presumption after all Damen was trying to protect me from Trevor why did guys always think I needed protection suddenly I remembered my mom's note I pulled it out of the pocket hidden inside my dress and read it by the glow of the lamp it's time you learn the truth about who you are what was she even talking about who was I Emily Shero Daughter of Barbara and Edwin Sher at

least I used to be now I was nobody nothing except chosen that was my role now Trevor was responsible for his own choices and yet I knew he'd never have gotten mixed up with the rebels if I hadn't been chosen this was his way of getting back at Daman he thought he could stop the wedding somehow or win me back he still thought there was hope I brushed my fingers against my lips remembering the way he'd kissed me in The alley at least he wanted me and loved me Damian was practically a whole different species

and I still couldn't tell how he felt about me he'd live forever and I'd grow old and die and my life wouldn't matter we accepted the choosing because it was the way things had had always been in algrave I'd never really considered what I wanted because we didn't have the right to choose for ourselves did the rebels seriously think There was another way to live without the elites without the Covenant I couldn't imagine what that would look like at some point I was lured to sleep by the rumbling Thunder and drifted off into a dreamless

sleep when I opened my eyes again a dark shape seemed to fill my vision I tried to move to scream but I was completely Frozen a weight settled on my chest so heavy I couldn't breathe like it was squeezing the life out of me I strained my fingers and toes willing Them to move the featureless shadow leaned over me and I thought I heard whispering but I couldn't understand the message then it was gone I gasped for breath waking from the dream half expecting to find someone in my room but I was alone my pulse

quickened when I realized something dark was sitting at the edge of the bed my fingers reached for it tentatively it was a black mask like the ones the Royal Guards wore during Storms the tubes filtered out the ash so they could breathe in the wild Marcus must have left it somehow I wondered if he'd been the one to deliver it the window was shut but unlocked I opened it and looked down a gust of wind teased my hair I smelled something burning and pulled back quickly pulling the hot Ember from my hair and stamping it

out on the floor I'd nearly forgotten about the ash I spent another hour telling myself I Wouldn't go to the meeting I had just promised Damian I wouldn't get involved but what if Trevor was there I could tell him to give up on me that I was happy with Daman I could get him to go back to algrave and be safe and find someone else at least then he wouldn't end up executed and then there was my mom Trev said she didn't have much time left her note said if I don't see you again Damian

made it clear he was going to Follow the rules the rebels would get punished for stealing that meant he couldn't give me any extra Elixir to save my mother it would make him a hypocrite at least not until after the trials or after the wedding but what if that was too late the thought of an empty chair at my wedding nearly brought me to tears the stolen Elixir the rebels had a whole shipment of undocumented Elixir And I knew exactly where to find them if they could get some to my mom we could save her

it was the only way I changed into dark jeans and a black turtleneck then grabbed the mask and headed downstairs as I tied a thick hooded Cape around my shoulders and walked into the burning Ash I wonder what the rebels could do for me and what they'd want in return chapter 18 I clung to the shadows and darted through narrow alleys as quietly as I Could but my heart pounded whenever I heard footsteps or voices a dark Shaw wrapped around most of my face concealing the heavy Mask My Breath was hot behind the filter but

the device worked as intended a sudden torch light drove me behind a stack of boxes and six guards came into view they were searching houses in teams wearing masks like mine I held my breath as they pounded on a door near me two of them stood outside watching the street While the others searched the house it felt like an eternity before they came back out again clear one of them said his voice sounded almost electronic behind the mask up close the wide Grill on the front of the device looked like a row of giant black

teeth one of them turned towards me his eyes glowing red like the falling Embers with the mask it made him look inum I wondered how much elixir was in their system not that it mattered just One of them could overpower me easily training had been interrupted by the attack and since the renewal ceremony was cancelled I hadn't had any new Elixir for several days I realized i' developed a taste for it not an addiction exactly I just felt weaker without it more scared less confident and more aware of my body sluggish almost going out into

the ash made it worse even though the mask filtered out the toxic Ash my anxiety was Exhausting I checked my bracelet out of habit forgetting I had left it under my pillow Zayn had done a decent job repairing the broken latch but now I was able to remove the diamond wristband on my own the monitor read zero anyway and I didn't want to broadcast my location but that also meant if I got caught I'd have no protection I waited until the guards moved on and allowed my breathing to settle part of me wanted to go

back but I was already halfway to the bridge I darted out from under cover and sprinted the rest of the way catching my breath when the bridge was in view I waited for 5 minutes hidden out of sight I was late but I wanted to make sure this wasn't some kind of trap just when I was about to make a move a black object whizzed through the air past me a surveillance drone I wondered how many of them were out there and whether I'd missed any others had they seen me the blinking red Light grew

smaller as it moved down the street I wiped my sweaty Palms against my dark cloak waited a few more minutes then crept across the street to the arched bridge I ducked over the side onto the small dirt path below underneath was a narrow platform but there was nobody there was I too late I could barely see the edge of the platform in the darkness but I heard the water rushing by carrying soot and Ash out of the Citadel the Roar of the water made it difficult to hear anything else so I didn't notice noticed the

door open behind me until I felt a hand on my shoulder I Whirled around so fast I almost fell in the River Marcus grabbed the front of my shirt until I caught my balance then grabbed my arm and pulled me towards the narrow opening inside quickly he said disappearing into the darkness behind him I took one last look around Then followed him inside he shut The door behind me lit a candle and led me through a low tunnel he changed out of his curate robes and was now wearing jeans a dark jacket and his trademark

knitted cap with ear flaps I realized now it was a disguise it covered his unique haircut without it everyone would recognize him as a curate he still stood out but at least now he could pass for a traitor what is this place I asked food storage mostly he said they used to bring food in by boat and keep it down Here the tunnel led to a cavernous room with a low ceiling illuminated by torches against the wall was a table full of pistols and what looked like explosives several Figures were huddled around a central pit

the remains of a smoldering Fire cast an orange glow just enough light to see in the darkness I looked around for faces I recognized Trev jumped up and gave me a long hug he was wearing a black shirt and fingerless leather gloves a black Band of fabric wrapped around his bicep I couldn't tell if it was a bandage or a political statement welcome to the resistance he said it felt good to be with him to feel his strong arms around me me he smelled the same like home and safety but then I remembered where we

were and pushed him away what were you thinking I said jabbing my finger into his chest you're going to get yourself killed you all will I said looking Around the circle you don't know what it's been like since you left Trevor said rations have been getting smaller people are hungry your mother she's not doing well she can't work at all so why aren't you in allg grave taking care of Jamie and laury it was unfair to hurl that at him and I knew it as soon as I saw the look of guilt cross his face

taking care of my family wasn't his responsibility it was mine because it's Not just about them he said pushing his dark hair out of his eyes it's the whole system were kept as pets a food supply nothing more they take everything from us and we have no control over our own lives that's not true I said thinking about the way Tobias looked at Penelope the Covenant a lie the whole thing the founders of algrave never signed any agreement we never agreed to any of this my eyes widened and I looked over to Marcus who nodded

grimly the historical records in the Citadel show that a trial batch of children were allowed to survive and raised in the compounds indoctrinated with the beliefs of the Covenant several Generations ago there were no Founders only prisoners of war is that what Daman meant about his father's system being based on a lie I shook my head refusing to believe it but what about the slag paaw the ash the elite Keep Us Safe they provide food and Shelter The Elixir Keeps Us healthy and strong The Elixir is a poison not a cure Trevor said drink a

little it makes you stronger drink too much and it will kill you so why steal it then I shot back because it's the only way to fight them they're too fast too powerful before attacking the transport of Elixir we saved up for months spitting out the renewal Sacrament collecting drops until we had enough many people have sacrificed in many compounds for our Victory now we have enough for everyone enough for a real Revolution you're crazy I said a few drops of Elixir won't make you as strong as an elite you attacked one during your little

Adventure he'll probably get a medal you're right Marcus said stroking his beard it's not enough there's something else we need we're hoping you can help with that the group looked at me expectantly I crossed my arms waiting For Marcus to continue King Richard's history is a fable he says that a virus wiped out humanity and the skies were scorched during the wars but from what I've read in the archives Richard was just a man a scientist he was trying to improve humans with technology he accidentally created the elites the bloodlust which led to the wars

it wasn't the humans who burned the skies and created the ash it was the elite King Richard's cure made them Sensitive to sunlight apparently the electromagnetic r radiation from the ultraviolet rays interfere with the healing function of the Elixir that's impossible I said that's not the best part Trevor said quickly there's a best part I asked crossing my arms according to the research as I understand it King Richard also made an antidote based on alenas which constitutes the major protein component in garlic bulbs It Cleaves carbon sulfur bonds which are essential for the organic elements

in the Elixir to function it reverses the effects of the Elixir Trevor said taking over it basically turns Elite into humans again it brings them back to life my throat went dry this all sounded like fantasy that's how he controls the other Elite that's how he got them to agree to his plan the compounds the Covenant the choosing all of it any Elite who didn't agree With him he'd give the antidote to and confined to the compounds by giving them life and making them human he'd also be condemning them to death is that why Damian

was afraid of his father because he didn't want to be made human again I still don't get it I said you want to steal the antidote even better Trevor grinned it's already been stolen at least that's what we think Marcus said most of the records have Been burned deleted from the archives but according to one of our informants a few decades ago a man named John Patton stole the formula he snuck it out of the Citadel and into one of the compounds a place called Quantum the king responded by destroying the entire compound and killing

everyone inside I struggled to make sense of what Marcus was saying a destroyed compound what happened to A Century Of Peace had there really been a rebellion so recently did it have Something to do with what I'd overheard at the bar the whole compound swallowed up by Ash dead as a graveyard even if all that is true I said so what listen to yourself King Richard destroyed an entire compound for this thousands of people you can't defeat him he's too strong not if we find the antidote Trevor said if we get that we can end

all of this we can be free to make our own choices find the antidote I repeated Trying to catch up but you said the compound was destroyed we think John Patton hid it somewhere rumor has it he killed dozens of elite before he was finally captured but they never retrieved the formula Trevor said I didn't like the almost reverent way he talked about killing Elites or the violence in his eyes what has this got to do with me I said crossing my arms Marcus pulled a faded photograph from his pocket showing Two men one I

recognized immediately Damen looked exactly like he did today apart from a much broader smile the man next to him was handsome as well but with a darker complexion this was a photograph of John Patton and Prince Daman taken before the Rebellion they were friends I asked yes we think that's how Jon got access to the formula maybe Damian told him something he shouldn't have or he stole it when he was visiting Daman in the Citadel Damen had a human friend who betrayed him and then his father had him executed along with an entire compound no

wonder Daman kept a close guard on his emotions so what do you want me to do I asked Trevor smiled and nodded at Marcus assuming I just agreed to help help them find out where Jon hid the antidote he said quickly sure no problem I laughed and rolled my eyes even if Damen knew which I doubt what makes you think he'd tell me you're his chosen Marcus said he barely talks to me I said men sometimes run their mouths when they're feeling satisfied I blushed and looked away staring into the coals of the fire I

had no idea how to satisfy my betroth wait haven't you Trevor cut in his eyes widening in Surprise no I said looking down at my feet he hasn't laid a finger on me Trevor looked relieved at least one of us was happy Marcus however frowned at this information there's Still time if you get closer to him he might let something slip no way Trevor said I told you this was a bad idea it's too dangerous plus you're not seriously suggesting she sleep with him to get information she's chosen Marcus said it will happen eventually my

cheeks felt like they were on fire they were talking about my virginity like a chess piece something to offer up in exchange for a formula to bring down the Elites I can't help you I said do you even hear yourselves John Patton was just one man and he got his entire compound destroyed what do you think they'll do to all grave if you get caught or if I do you're putting my family at risk you're putting everyone at risk maybe you don't have to ask him Marcus said you already have access to his home his

study he may have saved a copy of the formula or written something down in a journal anything you find Could be useful just keep an eye out and why would I agree to that because there's one more thing we haven't told you yet the secret of who you really are and what you're capable of I held my breath this was the information I'd come for but just then the wooden door exploded and Royal Guard came pouring in Trevor grabbed my hand and pulled me into a dark tunnel at the back of the room behind some

boxes we had to stoop to get in he covered up the entrance Just as voices shouted behind us gunshots rang out and I heard someone scream keep close Trevor said stay quiet we scrambled through the maze likee tunnels going lower and lower under the city I couldn't tell which direction we were heading until I heard a loud rushing sound I recognized the waterfall I said are we near the palace Trevor nodded finally we reached a tunnel wide enough to stand up in and followed it to a massive underground Cavern wide blocks of stone had been

carved into the walls and I realized they were buildings half submerged in water and covered with green moss it was a whole underground city but dead and Silent apart from the dripping of water and the constant rushing of the river overhead what is this place I asked in awe when the ash started falling most humans went underground the subway the sewers anywhere the ash couldn't reach them they built a home here until King Richard took over he redirected the rivers and had them flood the tunnels trapping the humans like rats in a cage that's what

we were to them we had a choice agree to his terms and live in The Citadel in the compounds or drown I shuddered wondering where Trevor was getting his information from was there any proof for this alternate history or was curate Marcus manipulating young recruits like Trevor with madeup stories something drew my eye to the Ceiling and I squinted my heart jumped when I saw the blinking red lights not just one hundreds of them but why would they have so many cameras way down here bats Trevor said pointing upwards they won't bother us if we

stay quiet as we pressed on on the water came up to my ankles it was so dark I could barely make out trev's bulky form in front of me my foot caught on a piece of rubble and I fell hard on my knees [ __ ] I swore then covered my mouth with my Hand as Trevor held a finger to his lips but it was too late I heard the flapping of leathery Wings then something tugged at my hair Trevor grabbed my hand hand and we ran forward covering our heads from the barrage of tiny

Claws and teeth finally we came to a small tunnel and Trevor tossed me inside against the wall we gasped for breath until the bats resettled this is you he said it'll take you above ground inside the walls stay out of sight stay safe I'm sorry we Brought you into this I was against it it from the start but if you did find an antidote imagine a world in which we didn't have to hide and Scutter around a world in which we were truly equal truly free I wanted to argue with him but I held my

tongue this wasn't the time or place he was dreaming of the world before the one Damian had shown me but that world was gone forever getting rid of the elite wouldn't bring it back I grabbed his hand and pulled him closer There was one more thing I needed he looked surprised then leaned forward to Kiss Me Again The Elixir I blurted where is it do you have it my mother I tried to keep the desperation off my face I hated the look Trevor gave me confusion then disappointment his face hardened and his lips pressed tight

it's safe he said we'll take care of your mother I promise but there are still a lot of things you don't know I don't know when I'll see You again it's too dangerous in the Citadel how will you get out I asked there's an underground river that will take me beyond the gates he said I have one more thing to do but I'll leave tonight Marcus will stay if you need to get in touch light a candle and put it in your window at midnight I nodded then reluctantly let go of his hand over the

earthy scent of the tunnels I could smell Trev and he smelled like home pine needles campfire And a muskiness that was all his own I wanted to tell him to stop chasing me that I was happy with Daman that I wanted to stay in the Citadel but my heart was beating too fast and I wasn't sure what I wanted anymore I hurried up the tunnel climbing several flights of stairs until I came to a small door with light on the other side I heard voices upstairs but the room seemed empty I pushed the door open

and crept out into some kind of storage basement filled With glass bottles then I made my way up the stairs I froze for a second confused and disoriented then I realized I was at Madame breezing despite the curfew a few men had braved the ash for their evening ale but the mood was different dark figures huddled in Corners grumbling and sucking down liquid from dark brown bottles I pulled my Shaw around my my head covering my nose and mouth then headed Quickly to the front door just as I put my hand on the door handle

it opened suddenly from the other side and a girl pushed through rivka my eyes widened in shock while hers narrowed she reached up towards my Shaw and I realized my face was still covered I shoved past her quickly and headed up the street my heart pounding so loud I couldn't hear my footsteps against the ash had she recognized me would she tell Nigel I dove into a dark corner Expecting to hear shouts or alarms behind me when she alerted the royal guard but none came only the deathly Silence of the ash the hiss of burning

embers as they fell gently like snow the city as still and quiet as the grave I forced myself out of hiding and continued down the streets the last time I'd taken this route was after I'd seen the dead girls with the missing eyes and been compuls by the man in the white mask that seemed like ages ago now when I still thought the Citadel was safe and the Covenant was binding and sacred I'd been so naive large x shap Apes had been painted sloppily on the doors of some of the buildings dripping red paint when

I realized the symbols marked the buildings that were cleared by the royal guard I used them to choose routes where I wouldn't run into any troops my breath was hot and sticky under the mask but at least the ash wasn't getting into my Lungs I didn't know when I'd get more Elixir and I already felt so weak my legs were trembling at long last I made it home stumbled inside and let the door close gently behind me the house was still and Silent the staff must be asleep thank goodness I took off my wet boots

and socks and hid them in a Cupboard then tiptoed upstairs in my bare feet I half expected Damian to be waiting for me in my room demanding to know where I'd been But my room was blissfully empty nobody had seen me go out nobody had seen me come in except rivka but she didn't get a clear look at my face I was safe for now I turned on the hot water to fill the bathtub eager to get out of my soiled clothes I let myself sink into the water once it was full adding the bath

salts and lavender oil Annette gave me it was strange changed to be surrounded by this much luxury after my night of Adventures in the sewers I Dried off and changed into silk pajamas that hung Loosely against my skin I was exhausted and sunk gratefully into my pillow it seemed like only moments later when a tapping sound jerked me awake but the light coming through the window told me it was already early morning I realized my wrist was Bare and fumbled for my bracelet snapping it back in place the cold metal against my skin made me

shiver then I heard the tapping again And got up to check the window maybe a bird trying to get inside out of the ash a hooded figure stood in the courtyard below looking up at me when she lifted her Hood I could see her features clearly Penelope what was she doing here she looked furtively in both directions and took out a parcel from beneath her cloak she held it up making sure I could see it then crossed over to the wall of a building and stuffed it into a drain pipe shouts made her spin suddenly

she Flung her cloak back and lifted her arms pulling out twin pistols in a fluid motion and firing as a group of royal guard rushed into view two men fell immediately but more were coming from the other side I shouted a warning slapping my palm against the glass so hard it cracked I held my breath as she tried to fight them off but there were too many she stabbed three with a short blade before they overwhelmed her punching her in the Ribs and stomach until she crumbled to the ground then they tied her hands and

dragged her out of view chapter 19 I ran downstairs and out into the ash I didn't care about my lungs I had to save Penelope but the ash was too thick and I didn't even know which way they'd gone a figure emerged from The Embers I reeled back instinctively until I saw it was Damian wearing his black hood his Sword dangled loosely against his long legs and he' never looked more dangerous he pushed me inside and shut the door they took Penelope I said my voice cracking already rough from the burning Ash she killed two

guards he said his voice like steel there's nothing we can do my jaw dropped in surprise I pushed away from him reaching for the door but he pulled me tightly against his chest and held my wrists my father's troops have been rounding up Suspects all night interrogating them one of them named her she resisted arrest I'm sure a confession will come soon enough my head was spinning how could Penelope be a rebel but she's chosen I pleaded she's our friend Damen held my face with both hands and brushed my tears away with his thumbs you're

tired he said you need food and rest there's nothing we can do right now it's too soon but I'll appeal to my father there will be a trial maybe we Can sway his decision don't lose hope I'll do everything I can to save her you promise I asked I promise he said then he leaned in and kissed my forehead I let myself melt into his arms that's when I noticed Damian was wearing the same clothes from yesterday he'd been out hunting the rebels all night I shivered thinking about what would have happened if he'd caught

me I washed my face and got changed before heading downstairs again For breakfast I didn't know when the last time I'd eaten was and Damian was right no matter what happened I needed my strength I put on on a pair of dark slacks and a navy blue blouse then covered my shoulders with a black suede jacket with metal buttons it looked vaguely like a military jacket I was done being pretty I wanted to be more than just a decoration I had a bowl of oatmeal with Fresh butter cream honey and berries and a few slices

of bacon then I washed it down with a cup of coffee Damian had gone to check on P iy I waited anxiously for word would he be able to save her the large empty table in the dining room made me feel small and useless so I picked up my plate and headed into the kitchen Claire and Annette were seated at a small round table I squeezed in next to them finishing my coffee it was a tense silence but I was glad for the Company after breakfast I took my plates to the sink and began washing

them you don't need to do that Claire said yes I do I said I need to do something or I'll go crazy she nodded and took the dish towel I passed her the dishes so she could dry them and place them on the Shelf we'd almost finished when I heard the alarms Claire gasped and dropped the plate she'd been drying it shattered on the ground instead of picking it up she stepped over the Broken pieces to look out the window what happened I asked the ash is stopping she said they must have turned the machines

back on what does that mean I asked it means they've caught the rebels Annette said from behind us she waved her hands for us to follow we headed to the front door where she poked her head out and looked up at the sky only a few flakes of Ash were falling now and soon they stopped completely the painted ex's from the night before were Bright red in the daylight as people started emerging from their domiciles Bells rang cheerfully drawing people towards the center of the city we joined in the crowds moving towards the palace most

of the city were climbing the stone steps on either side of the waterfall which curled behind the Monumental statues lifting the giant platform Annette steered me to the side down a narrow alley where a trolley system had been cut into the Rock we Boarded a glass box and a system of pulley and cables pulled us up the Steep incline special access Annette said showing me the key card that operated the machine we arrived at the back of the platform close to the main Palace h hundreds of people were already gathering in the central Courtyard the

palace entrance was lined with royal guards in their bright red jackets but today they were holding rifles along With the long Sabers in their belts and wearing the black gas masks instead of their normal face plates I saw Mary and Jasmine and cut through the crowd towards them in the center of the crowd was a large opening and a raised wooden platform Mary gave me a hug when she saw me and Jasmine squeezed my hand do you know what's going on Jasmine asked they caught the rebels last night I said maybe this will be the

trial as if on Q Six figures were marched from the main Palace towards the Central Square once they were all on the wooden stage the guards removed the black bags covering their faces I squeezed Mary's hand hand tightly expecting to see Trevor and Marcus but breathed a sigh of relief when I didn't recognize any of the rebels they must have escaped Penelope was missing as well however and I knew she'd been arrested a line of soldiers with large heavy steel Shields formed a Path from a gate on the side of the palace to the raised

platform forming a wide circle around the prisoners their armor was thicker and plated and they were wearing metal helmets with masks that hid their faces each Shield displayed the king's image the cup with the crowned serpent people of the Kingdom King Richard's Voice boomed through the Citadel it sounded like it was coming from everywhere at once and I finally saw him Up on the palace walls Watching Over Us from a wide balcony he was wearing a small microphone and his voice was projected by speakers on all sides two large screens had been set up on

either side of the palace showing a live closeup I looked for Damen but didn't see him I would like to congratulate the royal guards for the Swift execution of Justice in finding the rebels responsible for the attack the ash was unfortunate and I am sorry you all had To suffer for the crimes of the few I hope as a community we can move past this incident as quickly as possible to that end today Justice will be served swiftly Two Soldiers came forward with daggers I held my breath but instead of attacking they cut the prisoners

bindings the men looked around wearily rubbing their wrists another Soldier unrolled a burlap sack in front of them revealing six gleaming swords what's he doing Mary asked why arm them I don't Know I said shaking my head maybe he'll make them fight these Rebels King Richard continued thought they would be better off without the Covenant without the compounds and the protection that Humanity has been offered under my care perhaps there are others among you who would agree I thought today we'd have a demonstration the rebels think they don't need the elite that they can take

care of themselves so we will give them a chance to do just that I heard the Sound of metal on metal and looked towards the palace a large gate was opening and a massive Shaggy Beast emerged from the darkness it lifted its jaws and a blood curdling Screech ripped through the crowd I covered my ears my heart thuing painfully in my chest several women screamed and many of the citizens started running towards the edge of the palace Mount the slag paaw snapped at the audience but the line of soldiers Lifted their Shields and pushed back

steering the creature down the row towards the centered platform the slag paaw shook its head then sprinted towards the prisoners three of the men grabbed swords and took a defensive stance two ran away scrambling against the shields which now formed an impenetrable wall the last men knelt and lifted his palms in a silent prayer I wanted to move or look away or scream but it felt like my Eyes had been glued open and my limbs turned to stone with one swipe of its claws the slag paaw cut one of the men in half and sent

his torso flying above the crowd spraying them with blood then it bit off another man's arm after he'd swung at it with a sword blood spurted from the bloody stump where his shoulder had been and he collapsed Ed writhing in a pool of his own making the slag paaw pounced the third man puncturing his heart and lungs with heavy Talons I was Close enough to hear him groan as his ribs cracked and the breath squeezed out of him two of the remaining men attacked from the sides stabbing into the beast when it was distracted it

howled that Nails on chalkboard Screech that chilled my blood and lifted its arms up and back puffing out its chest and standing on its hind legs at full height it was twice as tall as the men they backed away uncertainly the slag paaw growled and charged at them smashing one into The row of shields so hard the soldiers behind them almost fell over I wondered how much elixir they'd had and how quickly it would run out the Beast slashed through the man's abdomen spilling his intestines then turned and swung his fist so hard the last

man sailed over the crowd and disappeared off the cliff into the rising Mist beyond the waterfall there was a moment of silence and I saw the beast's aggression soften It whimpered licking its wounds then it approached the final man who was still kneeling with his eyes closed Ed and his palms pressed together it leaned down and sprayed him with a foul stench sniffing his hair the man trembled and the slag paaw opened its mouth almost like it was trying to speak King Richard jumped off the palace balcony fell 50 ft into a perfect Crouch then

sped through the crowd like a bolt of lightning I heard a slicing sound and Saw FL flash of light then the King was a dozen yards past the Beast his sword gleaming red so slowly I almost didn't see it happening the slag paa's head slid off its massive body and rolled to the side suddenly I could breathe again it was like being released from Stone I placed my hand to my chest to steady my heartbeat when I turned around I realized nobody else was moving there was not a single sound among the hundreds of people

gathered around the Execution field King Richard wiped his sword with a white handkerchief and tossed it to the floor now slick with blood red from the six Rebels and the foul smelling black liquid oozing from the corpse of the mutation the rebels cannot defend you King Richard said gesturing at the remains of the six men not from me not from the slag paaw not from the ash the Covenant is the only thing that keeps Our species Alive live together or die apart but these traitors who try and destroy the peace and Harmony we have built

here they are an infection our kingdom will not allow terrorism it is my sworn duty to protect you and for that to happen all Rebels must be punished no matter who they are his cold eyes scrutinized the Gathering seeming to look at each of us in turn then he snapped his fingers and another group of Royal Guards hurried Forward they were packed together in a tight Square so I didn't see who was between them until they fann out leaving a solitary figure in the middle of the courtyard Penelope was wearing an elegant yellow dress and

it looked like her hair and makeup had been done recently she was so beautiful it was almost hard to look she could have passed for an elite murmurs spread like wildfire as The crowd realized who she was then The Whispers started a chosen a traitor a rebel King Richard turned to look at her I didn't know what was going to happen next but it couldn't be good I started forward but a firm hand grabbed my arm and rooted me in place I looked back and found Daman his eyes cold staring straight ahead I thought you

said there would be a trial I said we have to stop this it's been decided Damian said clenching His jaw there's nothing we can do how was he just going to let this happen I strained against him looking around for help where was Tobias what about Marcus or Trevor I realized I was secretly hoping for another Rebel attack someone to stop this madness to save Penelope my hopes fell when I finally saw Tobias surrounded by six Soldiers with heavy silver chains that seemed to burn into his skin as you can see King Richard Gestured towards

him no one is beyond reproach not a Chosen and not even an elite there can be no favoritism and the laws must be enforced no matter how painful he nodded and the soldiers unlocked tobias's hands and removed the heavy chains I expected him to attack to fight but he just stood there veins pulsed from his neck and his eyes bulged slightly like he was trying to move but couldn't I looked back at the king to See him wearing a smug smile you might think the elite are biased that we would treat our chosen en differently

from common Rebels today I hope to dissuade you of that idea each Elite chooses a companion to elevate him to make him better and stronger but it also makes us responsible Tobias your chosen has consorted with Rebels stolen Elixir plotted Revolution and conspiracy against the king the punishment is death today you will carry out the Sentence the audience gasped and I brought a hand to my mouth this couldn't be happening there was no way Tobias would kill Penelope he loved her when he bent down to pick up a sword I broke free from Damian and

pushed forward through the crowd stop this I shouted the guards held me back making a wall of armor and Crossed Swords but I was close enough to see a single tear roll down tobias's face he was trembling with exertion now resisting With every fiber of his being control your bride King Richard roared to Daman without looking over at us I saw a flicker of strain cross his brow and realized he must be compulsing Tobias he was going to force him to kill the woman woman he loved and nobody was going to stop him Penelope didn't

shy away when Tobias approached with the sword instead she cued her Palm around his face I love you she said it's not your fault he nodded and she kissed him then he Plunged the sword through her body bile Rose to my throat and I felt a burning pain in my gut as if I'd been stabbed Penelope gasped for breath and blood dripped from the corner of her lips down her chin she leaned forward for a final kiss leaving a red smear on tobias's pale cheek then she collapsed Tobias placed his arms under her knees and

lifted her up then carried her to the edge of the platform between the two massive statues He hefted the body up up above his head and tossed her over the abyss into the rushing waters then he sank to his knees his cheeks wet with tears and blood and let out a roar of Anguish that shook me to my core that night there was a banquet in the Royal Palace it was a celebration for ending the Rebellion all the chosen were to attend including most of the elite and the noble families and influential Merchants the dining

hall Was packed with long rows of tables this time they were decorated with gold rimmed dish wear light blue flowers bold navy blue tablecloths silver Cutlery I ran my fingers over the edge of my knife squeezing the blade until it hurt Annette picked out a new dress for me it was pink with swirls of fabric pinned to the shoulder like rose buds after spending last night hiding from the guards I felt more vulnerable than ever with my bare shoulders and arms in A room full of elite Damen told me earlier he wouldn't be able to

help me if I was involved with the rebels now I understood what he meant it wasn't only that he wouldn't stand up against his father it was that he couldn't King Richard was too powerful and more than that he was cruel punishing the rebels was one thing but forcing Tobias to murder his love like that I shivered and rubbed my arms across the room I saw rivka in a tight Black dress with Nigel again she was looking at me and Whispering something in his ear my heart quickened did she recognize me at Madame breezing would

Nigel call for the the guards but he laughed and looked away rivka winked at me and smiled she might be a problem later King Richard stood on the stage and raised his glass to make a toast know that this business has been resolved he said I'm pleased to announce the trials will continue as planned on Schedule now more than ever it is crucial that our chosen prove their loyalty I promise you can expect an exciting spectacle we will weed out the strong the committed and the loyal for another hundred years of Peace the room lifted

their glasses and cheered to peace they repeated at the very least the trials will distract everyone from this unsavory business and have them looking forward to a royal wedding that's what The people need now a celebration of unity an affirmation of the Covenant without our traditions we have nothing soon I'm sure we'll get everything back to normal back to normal what did that word even mean in Richard's Kingdom how could anything ever be normal again I hated him for what he'd done part of me hated Damian too for standing there and watching it happen and

now I had to marry him I finished a glass of wine Then poured another the elite might not be able to get drunk but that didn't mean I couldn't that's when I saw Tobias he was alone and Unshackled though I saw a few guards near the door put their hands on their swords wearily as he passed his neck and wrists were still red from his containment but he held himself with confidence and walked calmly into the party there was a cold grin on his lips that almost hid the rage in his eyes I Wondered if

he was going to make a scene instead he nodded po lightly to the king grabbed a bottle of wine off one of the tables and sank into a cushioned booth at the back of the room I wanted to go back and join him but I saw Daman reach the table first I backed slowly toward the wall then slid along it until I was behind them I glanced around quickly then ducked under a table and crept closer I won't do it Damian was saying I can't live like this Tobias said knowing what I've done you haven't

done anything Daman said he forced you like he forced me then let's do something about it Tobias said there are others they they will follow you he's too strong Damian shook his head not if we all strike at once Tobias insisted forget about it Damian said don't throw your life away after hers I'd rather die a meaningful death than live a meaningless life Elite don't die Damian said death may be the greatest of All human blessings Tobias said gripping daman's wrist daman's eyes widened suddenly and he pulled away you still have it don't you Tobias

said leaning forward you don't know what you're asking Damian said we don't even know if it works one of the staff approached the table to offer more wine but quickly retreated under the withering glares of the elite nothing you do is going to bring Her back Damen said standing up give it time if you still feel the same way in 3 months ask me again we'll take a trip maybe see the ocean then we'll talk more I waited until they were gone then snuck out from my Hiding Place and rejoined the party but my head

was spinning were they talking about the antidote if so that meant it was real Tobias said there were others did he mean other Elite plotting against King Richard Damen said nothing could stop The king but with the antidote and a few Elite on our side it might just be possible but I couldn't wait 3 months I let Daman walk me home but said good night at the door neither of us knew what to say to each other I took off the pink dress as soon as I reached my room feeling the cool air against my

bare skin I waited another hour to make sure I was alone then snuck downstairs and out into the night I crossed the courtyard and reached into the drain Pipe where I'd seen Penelope stashed something earlier and pulled out a small parcel wrapped in fabric I stuffed it in my pocket then hurried back to my room letting out a breath of relief as I closed the door behind me I unwrapped the parcel with trembling fingers carefully undoing the leather strings to reveal a small vial of Elixir it Shone brightly in the dark room glowing with inner

magic chapter 20 a day passed then two training resumed and I threw myself into it reving in the pain as my classmates hurled abuse upon me and bruises bloomed like flowers across my skin all to earn my dose of Elixir for a few hours the panic and Terror faded and I felt almost like myself again I could almost forget Penelope's execution but at night once my scrapes and cuts had healed and the pain faded I'd be alone in my too comfortable Bedroom I kept the windows open because I never seemed to be able to get

enough oxygen in my lungs every time I closed my eyes I saw tobias's look of sheer anguish as he murdered the woman he loved and Damian just standing there nobody had done anything to stop it I started taking the Long Way to the training building a cross the arched bridge over the rebel stronghold King Richard gathered the heads of the executed men and displayed them on tall Wooden Pikes three on each side I walked between their wide unblinking eyes it could have been me I'd met with the rebels I'd snuck into the ash after curfew

I knew who they were it was all my fault Penelope's last Act had been to bring me the Elixir and she got caught because of it was it for my mother did Trevor tell her to bring it why not wait until after the lockdown I wish I knew what drove her to take such a Risk I hid the vial of stolen elixir in my room for the first few days my whole body was rigid and alert listening for the sounds of the guards crashing through the door to arrest me I knew I should get rid

of the evidence I thought about dumping out the Elixir crushing the glass into sand burying it in the Earth but taking it out of the house at all seemed riskier than leaving it in my room plus I couldn't bear to part with it it was my mom's last hope I Just needed a way to smuggle it back to algrave still I changed the hiding place 10 times a day more than once I forgot the newest location and almost had a heart attack when I couldn't find it again part of me wanted to escape and run

back to algrave on my own but the guard patrols had doubled and the main gates checked documents carefully if I was caught I'd be questioned what if they forced me to give up Information what if Marcus and Trevor were captured because of me I wanted to fight to Rebel but I was too afraid of what might happen if I did King Richard's show of force had worked like everyone else in the Citadel I was too afraid to do anything and instead I walked around in a days training was the only place I felt comfortable surrounded

by my new classmates the first day back Mary and Jasmine gave me nods of Commiseration but Master fbod made us run drills before we had a chance to talk and kept us out of breath until it was time to leave she said she needed to push us harder to make sure we'd perform well in the trials she'd always been Stern but now she looked worried I had a feeling she was no longer just concerned about us passing the trials she was worried wored about how many of us would survive I pushed myself so hard in

class my brain settled into a gray fog of Exhaustion I barely registered anything until I heard Jessica gossiping about Penelope in class she was a traitor she said she got what she deserved plus my fiance said she was sleeping around with the rebels I spun to face her that's a lie I growled take it back oh my she said pretending to Fan herself maybe she was sleeping around with you are you a rebel Emily she narrowed her eyes at me my fist shot out before I knew what I was doing and slammed into her jaw

Knocking her head back she reacted quickly grabbing me by the hair and throwing me towards the wall I kicked off it flipped over her head head and landed softly behind her it was so effortless I didn't even need to think about it I just saw the surfaces the Angles and I knew how to do it I wrapped my arms around Jessica and rolled back pulling her to the floor with my weight I twisted and landed on top of her with my knee pressed into her back gripping Her wrists tightly I realized I'd always been a

little afraid of Jess resentful I didn't feel anything now except the brittleness of her bones they seemed to Creak as I flexed my fingers I could snap her arms off like Twigs if I wanted to I shook my head and relaxed my grip just before the other girls pulled me off sorry I muttered Jessica stood up and rotated her arms gingerly she'd bullied me practically my whole life but She was looking at me like I was the dangerous one whatever she said then she flipped her hair and sulked Away Master saboda called my name and

asked me to stay longer once the room was clear she pulled me to the side you need to be careful she whispered I know I'm sorry I said I didn't mean to hurt her it's not just that Master faota said she reached out and grabbed my bracelet checking the digital monitor 1.8% she said she sounded relieved but also slightly confused you're stronger than the other girls she said even though you get the same amount of Elixir is that bad I asked it's abnormal this isn't a good time to draw attention to yourself people might for

give you for your sympathy towards an executed rebel I understand Penelope was a friend of yours she was my friend too they'll allow you a short period of grief what They won't allow she said quietly is someone different someone who can't be controlled I gulped I could feel the word on my tongue but didn't have the courage to say it out loud renitent I saw it on her lips as well but she was holding it in she was trying to warn me but I was tired of pretending I wasn't hurting pretending everything was fine first

I was too weak now I was too strong no matter what I did it wasn't enough I tore my hand out of her grasp We're supposed to be getting stronger aren't we I asked so we can protect our Elite husbands when the time comes sacrifice ourselves for them die for them like nothing that's all we're good for right and competing against our classmates to show loyalty and entertain our masters well I was just getting a head start her face fell and for the first time since I'd met her the mask of the tough Drill Master

slipped and I saw the real woman behind it young pretty And pain I remembered what Kamina told us about her husband that he died protecting her I wondered if she felt guilty because she wasn't strong enough to save him maybe that's why she pushed us so hard I assumed it was a slag paaw attack but now I was curious how he died I wanted to apologize and ask her about it but she turned her back on me see you tomorrow she said said briskly waving me out when I got home I could hear Daman Playing

piano in the drawing room I stood at the doorway watching his slender fingers touch the keys delicately and listening to the beautiful sad music I wondered if playing the piano was something he learned through effort or something he stole by feeding on a Pianist I wondered if I was really attracted to him or just The Elixir I could sense inside of him after a minute I continued down the hall into the Library I didn't want to interrupt the music and I had nothing to say to him anyway besides I had work to do King Richard

was too powerful to defeat Unless somehow we could find the antidote if John Patton stole it and he was friends with Daman then maybe there was a clue in the library but I'd gone through all of Damian's notes and flipped through hundreds of books I also checked under the desk and furniture for any secret Compartments after going through all the books I started on a pile of magazines almost as tall as I was I was halfway through the stack when I found something the cover showed a man with glasses and a mustache smiling and holding

a small vial of glowing liquid he looked familiar and I realized it was the same man from the dancing memory we shared in class my eyes widened and my pulse quickened as I studied his features it wasn't just the memory I Knew him he'd shaved his mustache and didn't wear glasses anymore but I'm sure it was King Richard I flipped open the mag aine and scanned the article the headline read the cure for mortality Dr Hartman has developed a magnificent piece of biotechnology microscopic biological robots tasked with cell repair that feed on aged blood cells

and produce teleras an enzyme that adds DNA sequence repeats the article ended with a Question and a warning are we about about to enter a postmortal age if humans are defined by their proximity to death and we stop dying will we still be human at all maybe William Blake was right when he wrote Art is the tree of life science is the tree of death I didn't notice Damien enter the room until he coughed to get my attention I put the magazine down quickly and shuffled it under a few others how's training he asked I'll

be Ready I said did he actually care or was he just worried that I'd embarrass him if I couldn't keep up with the other chosen I know you're upset about what happened he said I am too I'm fine I lied you've barely spoken to me in days I'm surprised you noticed I said we weren't speaking much before that either Damen frowned and ran his fingers through his hair I understand you're mad at me but what else could I have done stop him there has to be a way what About the I cut off quickly and

turned my face my heart pounding I'd almost asked him about the antidote which would prove I'd met with the rebels I needed to get him to play his hand and tell me where it was without giving myself away I'm sorry I said I know it's not your fault I just need time to process all this what can I do to help Daman asked rubbing my shoulders there was only one thing I wanted I need to go home just for a few Days I want to see my mother and give her the vial it's not safe

in the compounds right now Daman said haven't you noticed it's not exactly safe in the The Citadel either besides I thought you caught all the rebels after the wedding I promise we'll go back to visit things are too hot right now politically my father needs me by his side and I want you by mine but if you'd like to get out of the Citadel for a few hours he said there is something else I'd like to show You you're kidding I said as Daman handed me a black helmet with a transparent face guard we descended

a spiral staircase through the Bedrock then took an elevator to an underground Cavern full of vehicles tractors Vans jeeps and something with two wheels Daman looked a little too comfortable with you'll be fine he said just hold on to me I climbed on the bike after him pinching my thighs together to hold on Then reached around his flat stomach he was wearing a black T-shirt a jean jacket and leather pants and a pair of dark sunglasses with gold rims I was in jeans and a long sleeve Navy top that covered me up to my wrists

and some fingerless leather gloves I found in the garage Daman opened up a wide door to the hanger and cold air blew in from outside the ash seemed darker and heavier than usual it's raining I asked just a bit Daman said would you prefer the car no it's fine I said putting on the helmet the air was damp as we zoomed past the Tall Pine trees bits of Ash got caught in my Tangled curls on my shoulders but they were damp so they didn't burn the rain carried toxins as well but it was mostly harmless

unless I soaked in it it actually felt refreshing until 20 minutes later when my teeth were chattering from the cold Daman parked and got off first then lifted me off the Bike I took off the helmet and shook out my hair while Damien opened an umbrella for me what is this place I asked as I saw the shapes of buildings and houses the first compound he said Quantum a chill ran down my spine the buildings were abandoned and half buried in Ash some had caught fire and burned down leaving only the blackened remains of their

original structures it was strange to see the ash falling inside a compound is this what Algrave would become if they turned off the purification engines ours were the only Footprints in nearly an inch of of gray ash and soot a flash of red caught my eye and I could just make out a playground on the side of what must have been a park the seats of the swings were dirty but I could still see the peeling red paint of the poles the rusty chains creaked in the breeze closer up I saw something on the ground

and pulled it out of the mud and Ash a doll made of fabric and yarn it smiled at me with one eye missing where is everybody I asked what happened here it was one of the earliest compounds Daman said I was a Solen teenager even decades after the race Wars I'd learned to be hard to kill but only to defend myself at first I was my father's Champion but over the decades I began to regret my father's new king om even hate it finally I refused to have any part in his new system especially the

choosing But I sometimes visited the compounds it made me feel normal to be with humans I mostly watched from afar and was careful not to lose control I was still haunted from what happened at my high school but I was lonely one day I made a friend he was young young handsome and idealistic we were cautious of each other at first but I kept visiting and over several months we found we had a lot in common sometimes emboldened by our friendship We'd talk openly about politics the compounds the City of Lights I told him things

I shouldn't have he asked to visit me in the Citadel and I obliged he was the first true friend I had in decades until he betrayed me I held my breath was he talking about John Patton would he reveal the location of the antidote he was always asking questions interested in the science behind the Elixir and the elite he became obsessed With a way to reverse it to create social equality his passion was infectious I played along though I never really believed such a thing was possible but then one day he stole something from my

father's lab and brought it back here my father was Furious when he found out I told him I'd get it back to trust me but my father said the commons had to be punished the knowledge was too dangerous too valuable in the wrong hands I Refused but then he compuls me and I couldn't resist I killed him I killed my friend just like Tobias and Penelope I said I thought it was over Daman said but my father wasn't done first he turned off the purification engines as the ash fell into the compound people were screaming

running he froze them all grabbing their Wills binding them like puppets he was showing me how powerful he'd become He held them like that for three days with me at his side they died slow painful deaths The Embers melted their skin their screams were muffled as they choked on ash they're still here I asked Goosebumps Rising on my skin Damian nodded and led me forward until I could see them arms spread out fingers wide eyes turned to the sky the ash had hardened into a hard surface almost like marble but not before recording the horror

of their Punishment flesh sagging from the bones holes as the ash burned through their cheeks and they felt every second of it then left here forgotten abandoned a cemetery of grotesque statues a reminder and a warning for anyone else who doubted King Richard's power the rain was heavier now pattering against the umbrella like a drum but Damen wasn't finished after this Damian said I swore if he ever took control of me like that Again I'd kill myself I didn't speak to him for a year after that since then I've been quiet resisting so I didn't

choose I didn't get involved I avoided politics completely until you a crack of lightning split the air nearby and the rain started pouring down in torrents rain and Ash was dripped from daman's forehead onto his jacket here I said lifting the umbrella up for him I'm fine he said you'll get your jacket dirty and The Maids are going to spend all day washing it for you Daman held his palm up to his eyes then pointed to a nearby cabin he struggled with the door handle for a second then kicked it open and pulled me inside

the house was dusty but dry it smelled like books and old leather and had a big fireplace on one side of the living room Damen split some firewood and I found a box of matches in one of the drawers soon we had a roaring fire The warm yellow glow brought life to the abandoned house and I could see signs of its previous owners a half finished knitting project by a stool near the fire a basket of sliced bread now so stale and brittle it crumbled between my fingertips it reminded me of my home in algrave

I moved closer to the fire shivering Damen took off his jacket and pulled it snugly around my shoulders steam rose up from my sneakers as I held them closer To the Flames I didn't get it before Daman said holding on to the jacket and pulling me towards him not really but after the attack on the capital you could have been hurt I wouldn't know how to handle that it made me realize how much I've come to care about you I was against my father's whole system before but maybe it is the only way to prevent

War you don't know what it was like before when we were fighting for survival I've been shot hundreds of Times attacked for my blood I got away from the worst of it my father always protected me everything about his new system disgusted me especially the chosen a blood slave for the elite to Fe feet on he wrinkled his nose and I lowered my chin unable to look him in the eyes is that what he thought of me was I so disgusting but then he reached down and lifted my chin gently his eyes were soft and

warm like his lips my mouth parted Involuntarily opening to him his eyes caught the movement and he sucked in a sharp breath it's not you he said quickly you are beautiful and fascinating and kind he reached down and pulled a strand of hair behind my ear as he did his fingertips lingered on the back of my neck isn't there something else you could do I asked softly you said your friend was working on a way to reverse the Elixir don't he said his voice Suddenly like gravel you saw what he did to Tobias I haven't

tried to resist him not really for decades not since what happened here but he could have me kill you snap your neck it would only take a second and I'd have to live with that guilt forever don't you see I have something to lose now and he knows it I always thought the chosen Were Meant to keep the humans in line to give them something to Hope for and the illusion of Equality but I realize it's more than that it's also a way to control the elite and humanize our monstrous Tendencies The Chosen make us

vulnerable it's not all that bad is it I asked I mean he did build the compounds the purification engines you keep us safe it could be worse I wasn't sure I believed it after what I'd seen King Richard do but seeing Damian in pain made my heart clench uncomfortably plus I wanted to keep him Talking his eyes lit up with hope and it could be better with you at my side working together we could make it better there's a future for us he said I promise he reached for my fingers and held them up to

his lips then kissed my wrists gently ignoring the red patches of my birth mark his touch sent shivers running through my body you've changed me he said given me something to live for I leaned forward pressing my weight into his he looked off guard for a Second but then closed the gap between us he hesitated our lips inches apart waiting for permission I gave it by grabbing the back of his neck and pulling him to me he lifted my shirt and his fingers scorched a path of fire across my abdomen I gasped as he kissed

my cheek then my neck my whole body felt alive and I was tingling everywhere I'd never felt this way before he sniffed then suddenly pulled back his body rigid what is it I asked I can't separate my desire for you from the blood lust he said looking ashamed I can't tell where one starts and the other ends I haven't been this close to a human a girl not since it's okay I said Daman basically just confirmed everything I'd heard from the rebels about John Patton that meant the antidote might be real he might not be

ready to stand up to his father but that didn't mean he didn't know where it was maybe Marcus was right I just had to get Him to open up is this what you want I whispered placing my hand against his chest I Shrugged my collar to the side revealing my bare neck and shoulders then started unbuttoning my shirt he gasped hunger and need raging in his eyes you don't know how hard it is to be near you he said to want you so badly and resist I had some idea being this close to Damian I

wanted him too and it was more than just the elixir in his veins Or his Elite physique it was him it was the kindness in his eyes it was the way he looked at me and really saw me I leaned up on my toes and kissed him long and slow then I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him closer go ahead I murmured in his ear please I want you to Daman hesitated a moment longer then pushed me against the wall I wrapped my legs around his waist crushing him against me he kissed

my ear and my jaw Before lunging at my neck I cried out as his teeth pierced my skin the bite was sweet like a toothache pain and pleasure mixed together I curled my hands into fists clenching the sides of daman's pants and pulling them lower I moaned as he ground his hips into mine his saliva mixed with my blood and sparkled like magic it felt like sunshine and Roses injected straight into my veins I looked up at Damian my pupils as wide as my smile but I froze in confusion when I Saw his face he'd

pulled away and he was looking at me with shock and anger his pupils were larger and dark like he was seeing me for the first time or seeing All of Me no he said it's impossible he looked sick and his face was whiter than usual which made the blood on his chin stand out like a stain my blood he looked like he'd been poisoned poisoned by me chapter 21 we left when the rain stopped I had The feeling Damian wanted to leave me there in the open AED Mausoleum of his father's victims instead of of

bringing me back with him to the Citadel after biting me he'd sat sullenly on the other side of the cabin his gaze sharp but hooded like an eagle's one second he'd been kissing me the next he couldn't stand to be near me we were both silent on the ride home I felt rebuked like I'd let him down somehow I wasn't what he expected I Didn't taste tast good enough was it my dark markings maybe I was spoiled like a fruit gone bad or because I was renitent whatever that meant Damen parked in the garage and

climbed the stairs so briskly I was practically sprinting to keep up with him when we reached the house he held the door open for me without coming in I need to check on Tobias he said it sounded like an excuse but I didn't challenge it of course he should do that He was just being a good friend but I'll see you later I asked his eyes softened and he looked at me for the first time since the bite just stay inside okay we'll talk more tonight I reached for his hand trying to rekindle the emotions

we shared at the cabin but he pulled away something had definitely changed I was making myself a cup of tea in the kitchen when it hit me master faota said Elite could share memories in Elixir memories they'd taken from human blood Could Damian have read my mind when he bit me did he know about the rebels about Trev maybe that's why he left in such a hurry but I didn't know where Trev was he must have left the Citadel already he could even be back in all grave my blood chilled thinking about Frozen statues we

saw in quom their screams immortalized forever if Damian tracked Trevor home and the King found out about it that could be all grave tomorrow my family Jamie laury mom they'd all be tortured because of me I knew Daman was fundamentally a good person but he'd never disobey his father especially now according to what he' told me earlier though I wondered if his feelings had changed now that he tasted me I used my husband's absence to search the library again I looked through the non-fiction and research papers but the only thing of value I discovered was

the magazine I found last time would that enough to Help the rebels my eyes scanned the bookshelves again I'd practically memorized the arrangement of volumes but this time I took in the whole wall and that's when I noticed the panel flat wooden columns ran between the shelves but today one of them was tilted at a slightly different angle I tucked my nails beneath the wood and pried it open revealing a hidden Shelf with only two items a leatherbound journal and a book my fingers trembled as I pulled open the Journal An Elegant script announced it

as the Diary of John Patton inside the text was cramped together with dozens of lines on every page of the small notebook there were poems daily entries and a few formulas and equations similar to the ones I'd seen Damen working on was this it the missing antidote but if the antidote really existed why was Damian still working on the science I put the notepad aside and Turned to the book The Cover read Dracula by Bram Stoker but when I opened it I discovered a hole had been gouged through the paper leaving a secret chamber between

the pages inside was a long brass key tied with a piece of red ribbon but what did it go to I flipped through the journal for any mention of the key but found nothing then I Tried reading the book since half the text was missing I Couldn't understand the narrative but there were still passages that jumped out at me Undead creatures who drained the blood of young women and children shifters who could turn into Wolves at the full moon castles full of bats and treacherous Journeys on horsedrawn carriages one passage was circled in red ink

about a character named Lucy she died but came back to life and started hunting children her friends staked her Through the heart cut off her head and then filled her mouth with garlic this last part was underlined as well one word was repeated most often vampire I'd seen it somewhere before I tucked the books back in the secret compartment and closed the hidden door carefully then looked through the shelves again until I found it a small book with gold text on the spine that read Vampire myths and legends another passage was circled in red ink

One method of finding a vampire's grave involved leading a virgin boy through a graveyard or church grounds on a virgin stallion the horse would supposedly bulk at the grave in question I didn't know what to make of it this book by Bram Stoker was fiction it read like a novel I'd read enough books to know the difference between history and fantasy and it was old from before the before I knew the elite were created when Dr Hartman discovered the Elixir but the similarities between these old Legends and my present reality brought chills down my spine

I suddenly felt alone in this huge Library by myself part of me wanted to run and light a candle in my window but I hadn't actually found anything about an antidote was it worth the risk to try and contact the rebels did I even want to if the rebels found a way to reverse the process would they really just leave the elite alone after Curing them of immortality or would it be like in the story they'd stake their hearts and cut off their heads just to be sure they were dead I didn't want that to

happen to Damian I went downstairs and grabbed my coat it was already getting dark but I hadn't been outside by myself since Penelope's execution and I needed air my feet carried me to The Outdoor Cafe Penelope had shown me when we'd arrived The manager was gone and a young boy took my order without recognizing me he wrote the drink down nervously barely making eye contact lights went up around the plaza as the sun faded but the novelty and joy I'd felt with Penelope last time was gone roses bloomed in the garden filling the air with

a sweet floral scent but I saw a few smiles and heard no laughter I wished I'd asked the other girls to join me but it was too late now Besides I'd see them in class tomorrow I tried to enjoy the Bittersweet concoction the boy served me with sprinkles Whi cream chocolate and coffee but it was so rich and sweet it made my stomach hurt I was about to leave when a girl swished past my table and dropped something near my feet I bent down to pick it up and was about to chase after her when

I saw my name on the folded paper I lowered my hands under the table quickly then unfolded The note we need to talk meet me after renewal M Marcus I assumed I wondered if he had news for me at least I knew he was all right maybe he could tell me more about Trevor I tucked the note into my pocket quickly looking around to see if anybody was watching I realized for the first time what a dangerous game I was playing Trev was a rebel I was lying to my husband and the King had shown

no one was above Reckoning I thought his punishment of The rebels had been harsh but now I knew what he was truly capable of he destroyed an entire compound because one man stole from him what would he do if he caught Trev turn my family into statues I hadn't been homesick before not really but now I was desperate to get back to algrave and see my family before it was too late Damian took me to quum to explain and to help me understand him and I did first he killed his high school crush on Accident

then he was betrayed by his only friend no wonder he'd been cold and distant at first he didn't want to force me because he'd been forced and then when he challenged his father he lost everything he cared about he was afraid of losing me the same way afraid of what his father could make him do to me what I didn't understand was why he shared all this with me before he tasted my blood and now suddenly he was treating me like a total Stranger was he embarrassed he'd been so vulnerable with me was he afraid

of going too far and divulging for forbidden Secrets or had he learned about Trevor through my blood memories he could be hunting him right now it was nearly dark now so I finished my coffee I flashed my bracelet as payment and the boy's eyes widened he'd probably never seen a chosen before the silver band flashed in the light and I saw several eyes land on the monitor Which read 1% daman's bite must have pushed more elixir in my system I blushed when I saw several people eyeing me since last week's renewal got cancelled people were

hungry for their next dose I knew the pain of coming off Elixir the sweats and chills my mom used to say when we were kids and we complained about needing to go to the service it was harmless and after a few weeks the Cravings would mostly vanish But in the meantime the body would feel weak frail and a little desperate if they knew I was hiding a vial of stolen elixir in my room these people would follow me home I hurried back to the apartment and breathed a sigh of relief once I'd locked the doors

behind me the Mansion was dark and I realized I didn't know where the light switches were for most of the rooms the staff usually turned turned the lights on at dusk but they must have the night off I lit a Candle with a match and watched the fire melt the wax around the wick it rolled down in heavy drops in my room I peeled off my clothes for the first time all day they were stiff from our trip and dirty I promised myself I'd apologize to Claire later for practically ruining them I hoped she wouldn't

try to stitch them back together then I took a bath relaxing into the soapy water my neck felt tender where Daman had bit me but I couldn't Find the teeth marks I must have had enough elixir in my system to heal the wounds I decided to Corner him if he came back tonight and find out why he was avoiding me I might even ask him about the books behind the secret compartment in the library maybe I could use use that information as leverage and convince him to let me visit my family so I could give

my mother the vial of Elixir I wrapped a towel around my waist And drained the tub I was halfway to my closet when I noticed the bulky white parcel on the bed I was surprised I hadn't noticed it before I undid the red ribbon and opened the box to reveal a white dress sparkling in the light of the lamp it was the wedding dress I tried on the day of the Rebel attack a note said it had been tailored to fit I held it up against me in the mirror admiring my reflection King Richard seemed

Determined for a royal wedding but after the way Damian reacted to me today I wasn't sure what kind of future we had together my pulse raced remembering the way he' kissed me and the feeling of his body body against mine I realized suddenly I wanted to marry Damen I couldn't rationalize it when we'd known each other for such a short time but the idea of being apart from him felt physically painful I stepped into the dress and Zipped it up behind me then turned in front of the mirror it was even more beautiful than I

remembered it silver embroider climbed up the dress like ice crystals matching the bodice and transparent sleeves stitched with swirls of white fabric had been added they extended to the back of my hands and almost made it look like I had wings I lifted my arms and the whole dress sparkled letting off a ghostly Halo in the dark room at that moment I knew two Things I was secretly in love with my husband and I wanted to wear this dress again I heard a noise in the hall then footsteps and heavy breathing outside my door Daman

must be back already just a second I yelled it's bad luck to see the bride in her dress before the wedding remember I smiled but my lips turned down when I got no response he can't even make an effort at banter my pulse raced as the silence deepened what was he so afraid to tell Me had something terrible happened something with Tobias or Trevor the silence was more threatening than the Superstition so I lifted the Hem of my dress and shuffled over to the door I cracked it open just enough to peek through then froze

in confusion the whole Hall was filled with Shaggy gray fur and breathing it shifted lower and a yellow eye as large as my fist fixed me with a deadly stare I saw the flash of Razor-like claws just before the door exploded tossing me inward I landed hard on the floor clinging to pieces of the door the slag paaw snarled and lunged at me it was so large it barely squeezed through the door frame I threw the door at its head but its claws tore through the metal handle sending up a shower of Sparks this couldn't

be happening how was a slag paaw here inside I jumped towards the window and flung it open help I Screamed several people looked up at me illuminated in the window they'd never reach me in time I grabbed the Lantern and threw it in front of the Beast it sparked on the rug igniting a wall of fire I smelt burning hair and the slag paaw whimpered in pain but then he leapt over the fire towards me I dove across the bed feeling dagger-like claws dragged through the Flesh on my calf I cried out but I didn't

feel the pain until I stood up and my leg buckled I Was bleeding badly I watched the blood spit into a puddle on the floor I felt the stickiness of me through my bare feet staring into the eyes of the slag paaw as it stocked closer blood was soaking up the Hem of my dress staining it bright red I was going to die here a virgin bride in a bloody wedding dress I'd never see my family again I'd never be able to deliver the stolen vial of elixir and save my mother my death would be

hers as Well the vial I grabbed a chair and held it up in defense the slag paaw ripped it apart with its massive teeth turning it into sawdust and a holstery I dove toward the chest of drawers and yanked it open I taped the vial on the underside of the cabinet the slag paaw grabbed the bloody white Veil and jerked my head backwards just as my fingertips closed around the glass tube he flung me across the room into the mirror then pounced on top of Me pinning one arm down with his huge paw the wrong

arm I smirked I raised the other arm up quickly tore out the cork with my teeth and swallowed as much elixir as I could the first thing I noticed was the blindness it was like being in an ash storm my vision was completely white for a few seconds and I heard a ringing in my ears the second thing I noticed was the absence of pain I looked down at my calf where chunks of skin hung Loosely from The bone the pain had been unbearable a second ago now I could barely feel it I heard the

tinkling of glass and realized I'd shatter shed the mirror pieces of reflective glass fell around me in slow motion glinting like tiny crystals I could almost see the scene in each one the slag paaw pinning me to the ground the fire climbing up the forpost bed and licking the ceiling and me the bloody bride about to breathe her last but I wasn't ready to die I arched my Back sucking in a breath as The Elixir kicked in hard and then roared as power flooded through my body I kicked up with my legs shoving the slag

paaw off me it barked in surprise but I dodged its razor sharp teeth and punched it in the nose I ducked under its claws then blocked a blow with my forearm it hit me like a bag of bricks but I stood my ground I was sparring with a slag paaw the next swipe caught me across the chest and I Felt its claws rake against my ribs I barely felt the pain but at this rate I'd bleed out faster than I could heal I needed a weapon I darted away from the Beast then ran across the

wall and flipped over the creature's head I landed near the door and rolled into the hallway the creature was tight on my heels as I dashed down the hall in the dining room it smashed through the antique table and chairs snarling at me I jumped onto the chandelier and let it Swing me across the room to the far exit I used the momentum to Skid down the hall latch onto the doorway and Propel myself into a roll then I popped up to reach my target an ornamental sword in an Armory display it was nearly as

tall as I was but I lifted it lightly in one smooth motion I swiveled in midair to face my Hunter and planted my feet behind me with the sword fully extended the blade slid through the slag paaw as its teeth snapped just inches From my neck showering me with dark warm blood I staggered under its weight and felt the creature's rancid breath on my cheek as the light faded from its eyes then I shoved the creature away my heart was racing but I felt incredible euphoric I'd never moved that fast before I didn't even know

I could move that fast the walls seemed to be almost pulsating with my breath as if my lungs had the power to to inflate the room I heard the door bang open below and the Sound of footsteps rushing into the building part of me was hoping it was Damien so I could run into his arms Another Part Of Me wished for another slag paaw so I could do it all again I flicked the sword once sending a spray of black blood across the wall then took a defensive position with my oversized sword as a contingent

of soldiers burst into the room arrest her a voice yelled Nigel's hair was slicked back and dark Like usual his eyebrows raised in mirth you're kidding I asked for what surviving a slag paaw attack it was trying to kill me what should I have done your bracelet one of the soldiers nodded I glanced down at it and saw it read 18% I squinted my eyes then tapped the bracelet twice that had to be a mistake Master faota told us at 10% we'd get sick 20% and we'd lose our minds the bracelet automatically sends a warning

When it registers an abnormal spike in Elixir we've been monitoring The Chosen closely since the terrorist attack Nigel said gloating we suspected some of them might have been in on the attack on the Convoy so we were waiting for one of them to be stupid enough to use the stolen Elixir I'm so glad it was you now drop the sword I frowned but let the sword clatter to the floor it suddenly felt heavy I felt a warm heat in my leg and Abdomen where the Beast had torn into me I looked down to see the

skin begin to fold itself back together two of the guards reached out and held my arms several others pointed their swords at me what's the matter boys I grinned afraid of an unarmed girl they looked at me glanced at the dead slag paaw then took a step back what's the meaning of this Damen roared parting the crowd the nearest guards shied away from him lowering their Swords then he saw me I saw myself reflected in his eyes the Wild and wandering hair the blood trickling down my arms merging with the dark patterns on my wrists

the wedding dress looked like it had been dyed red then splashed with a bucket of tar what did you do to her Damen shouted he grabbed Nigel by the collar and slammed him against the wall it wasn't him I said slag paaw one of the guards said Damian's jaw dropped as he looked past me to the furry Carcass blocking the hall I don't understand he said how did it get inside why would it be here she killed it Nigel said with a smug grin by herself Daman looked at me in disbelief then grabbed my bracelet

and read the number it was down to 14% and falling quickly daman's cheeks went red and for a second I thought I saw his shoulders tremble she's high on Elixir Nigel said gloating she's Obviously a rebel so we're arresting her she'll be questioned thoroughly Over My Dead Body Damen growled if you insist Nigel took out a curved dagger and held it against Damian's throat the head of security stepped between them with a hand on the hilt of his sword Justice must be done he said quietly then go do it elsewhere Damen shouted there's been no

crime here I gave Emily a vial of blood in case of an Emergency so she'd be protected and it's a good thing I did you gave it to her Captain Smith sounded skeptical he's lying Nigel yelled you dare challenge me with the trials coming up I wanted to make sure my chosen performs well I'm not the only Elite giving out extra rations surely you've seen that the captain turned and looked at a young man behind him holding a tablet it took me a minute to place him it was the guy we'd met in the pub

We have seen elevated levels of blood elixir in more than a dozen chosen recently Zayn confirmed quietly but never above 5% what can I say Daman said I want her to win now get the [ __ ] out of my house in the slag paaw Nigel asked a training exercise no doubt Dam 's smile fell but he held Nigel's gaze if I knew how to control a slag paaw Damen HED I'd put one in your bedroom sleep tight oh I will Nigel said she'll probably be brain Dead by morning anyway nobody can survive that much

elixir the royal guard filed out into the street and Damen shut the door behind them the silence was deafening when we were alone I wiped my bloody fingers on my dress before I knew what I was doing [ __ ] I said the dress forget it Damian said holding my shoulders softly are you okay I'm sorry about the vial I had to use it but where did it come from Damen asked his grip Tightening I'm not with the rebels I swear I saw Penelope she dropped it below my window just before she was arrested you've

had it this whole time I think it was a gift for me to save my mother your mother he asked arching his eyebrows she's sick I said dying I thought the Elixir could heal her that's why you wanted to visit algrave he asked to save your mother that's why you hid the vial from me I nodded and he hold me closer to his chest I've been such an Idiot we'll leave for algrave first thing in the morning chapter 22 I could hardly sleep dreaming about tomorrow I was finally going home I felt a rush of

nostalgia thinking about the smells of algrave the taste of Mrs Samson's apple pie the smell of cinnamon and pine trees I couldn't believe I'd only been gone a month it seemed like forever since I left my compound when the sky lightened I threw Off my blankets peering out over the ramp parts and walls of the Citadel towards the horizon where my mother was slowly dying but I was going to save her I packed a light bag with a change of clothes I didn't know how long we'd be staying but I wanted to be prepared I

was surprised Damen said yes to this trip but I wasn't about to ask why I wondered if he asked his father for permission I half expected armed troops To stop us at the gate but we used an elevator to reach the Subterranean garage this time there was a beautiful white Carriage with gold rims and leather seats linked up with four large horses is what's this I asked Tobias insisted Damian said nodding towards two figures nearby it was the first time I'd talked to Tobias since what happened to Penelope but I didn't know what to say

I'm sorry you murdered your wife so I Just gave him a hug it's pageantry he said nodding towards the horses with a smile a fairy tale about the return of the blemished huntress who married the prince I only hunt rabbits I said frowning Tobias pulled me closer and looked into my eyes rumor has it you killed a slag paaw with your bare hands and they found you soaked in blood in your wedding dress it's hard to explain I said looking away it doesn't matter what really happened He said people are already talking about you you're

a legend in the making we just need to control the narrative you are more powerful than you know and I'm not just talking about killing slag paaw also about that Zayn coughed stepping forward he was holding a device that glowed with blue lights he scanned it over my bracelet I've convinced everyone this was a tech malfunction he said which was easy because nobody should be able to ingest that much elixir without Losing their minds most people become rabid even violent on far less but the tech is fine it was you you shouldn't have been able

to survive that but you did how do you feel fine good I mean I'm excited to see my family my skin itches a little that's normal Zayn said I've Rewritten your code so abnormal Elixir levels won't trigger the warnings I'll get a message separately from the main servers but be careful something about you is different but too much elixir in Humans always leads to death Damian and Tobias exchanged a glance they knew what was wrong with me but they were still keeping it a secret whatever it was they weren't ready to share the knowledge with

Zayn yet I wondered when they'd share it with me Damen held out a hand and helped me into the carriage then our driver tossed a whip to get the horses moving it'll take twice as long Damen grumbled but my father thinks if everyone sees how happy we are it'll Calm things down most chosen never return to the compounds not even to visit so there are rumors about all kinds of things I was so excited to be leaving I didn't even care if the King was using my visit for political reasons we waved goodbye to Zayn

and Tobias then let the horses pull the carriage out of the hanger the Wheels rolled smoothly over the roads and soon we were flanked by Tall Pines the first time I left algrave the cars had been moving much Faster too fast to appreciate the ruined landscape moving slowly even through the thick Ash I could see signs of the world before abandoned cars and bicycles buildings with broken windows that looked like they were screaming piles of what looked like human skeletons I shuddered and sank back into my seat Damian had lived through that that when everyone

was killing each other trying to kill him no wonder he Had his guard up was that really the only alternative tyranny or Anarchy I buried my fingers in the pocket of my coat clutched around two scraps of paper the note from my mother about who I really was and the one from curate Marcus maybe today I'd finally get some answers I was so distracted I didn't realize we'd arrived until I saw the gates of algrave they were decorated with bouquet of Peach and white flowers A marching band blasted music when we pulled in and it

looked like most of the village had gathered to welcome us I hoped they weren't expecting a speech the horses stopped in front of my house and the driver climbed down to open the door for us I noticed someone had finally fixed the broken boards on the porch and repainted the rails a crowd of people waited to greet me I shook hands with as many as I could making my way to the front door some of them simply Clutched my dress like it had Curative powers of its own two little girls picked up the end of

my dress and held it above the dirt they gave Damian a much wider birth and Elite had never visited as a guest before I recognized Mary's mother she came up and held on to my arm please she said how is she what's it like there we heard there was an explosion everything is fine in the Citadel Damian said thieves stole a shipment of Elixir but The perpetrators have all been dealt with your daughter is perfectly safe I saw her 2 days ago I said squeezing her hand she looked healthy and happy thank you Mrs Bradshaw

smiled a tear dripping down her face Amber pushed her way through the crowd then nearly tackled me in a hug she grabbed my hand and pulled me forward we've been waiting all day for you she said pulling me inside Jamie and laury went shopping for all your favorites and I'm Starving it's nice to see you too I smiled she looked different thinner with more angular features I gave Jamie and laury a kiss then pulled them in tight and tried to lift them both up Jamie was so big now I couldn't lift him with one arm

then I saw my mom piled up in the love seat by the window covered in blankets she looked frail and far too thin but she smiled up at me weakly I nearly cried looking at her but held it together Damian had to stoop under Our low ceiling and I realized how small and rustic our house was I'd always considered it cozy but daman's presence seemed to suck the air out of the room we didn't even have enough chairs to offer him a seat he smiled politely as I chatted with Amber and my mother after a

while however he tapped me on the shoulder and excused himself I'll let you catch up he said I'll be staying at the Inn on the corner take as long as you need oh and Damien leaned in close And pulled something out of his jacket pocket my eyes lit up when I saw the thin glass vial of Elixir he pressed it into my palm and rolled my fingers around it live together or die apart right he said I was so overwhelmed with gratitude I leaned up and kissed him he pulled back looking surprised even embarrassed but

I didn't care why shouldn't I kiss my fiance Laura Le giggled and I turned to see Amber's jaw hanging open what I Asked nothing Amber said just that was so hot shut up I said said punching her on the arm I poured one drop of Elixir into a mug of chamomile tea before handing it to my mother I also slipped her the vial careful not to let anyone else see it even with Damian's blessing I didn't think our neighbors would appreciate the special treatment it was after all against the rules one drop a day until

you're healthy again I said no more than that Or you might get sick she smiled and squeezed my hand I watched her drink the tea until I could see the flush in her cheeks and knew the Elixir was working her eyes seemed brighter and she even laughed a few times as laury told me all the things they'd been doing recently apparently Amber visited almost daily and Trev stopped by twice a week to chop wood and take J me fishing wait you saw him yesterday I asked suddenly paying more attention he's in town where Else would

he be mom asked I bit my lip not wanting to give anything away if Trevor was here that meant he got out of the Citadel safely I wondered whether curate Marcus would show up too I hoped not all I wanted to do was heal my mother and get back to the Citadel safely there was a knock on the door speak of the devil Amber smirked letting Trevor inside he smiled at me sheepishly running a hand through his dark hair he looked just like I remembered him but I Couldn't forget how fast he moved after the

rebels blew up the transport my eyes darted to the vial of Elixir and I was relieved to see Mom had already tucked it away somewhere I realized how valuable it was here and I hoped she'd be safe with it after dinner Amber took the kids upstairs to read a bedtime story when it was just the three of us Trevor coughed and nodded at my mother what is it I asked you two have been acting weird all Night there's something I need to tell you my mom said something important I I know I said I got

your note before I say this you have to know that I love you I've always thought of you as my own daughter the blood drained from my face and I pulled my hand away what are you saying I asked I wasn't sure I wanted to hear what came next one day a woman came running through the woods she placed a baby in a basket and floated it down down the creek under the compound Gates Then disappeared no one ever saw her again the infant was taken in by a good family and grew into a beautiful

girl when she turned 17 she was chosen and went to live in the capital months later it was discovered she was pregnant what how I asked chosen don't get pregnant because Elite can't procreate it was a scandal her Elite husband accused her of having a human Lover he beat her and locked her in a cage nobody thought the baby would Survive but a boy from algrave rescued her and they escaped they were later captured and executed but not before the child was born a child with red markings on her hand she held my palm tracing

the red markings over my fingers my husband and I took you in and raised you like our own like your own I repeated slowly but not your own Edwin sherrow was not my father Barbara sherrow was Not my mother I was not Emily Shero I squeezed my hands and my lap so you're saying what my real dad was an elite that's impossible and yet here you are said my mother who was not my mother a miracle I stood up then leaned against the table to keep from shaking that's why we need you Trevor said you

swallowed more Elixir than you should have been able to you killed a slag paaw don't you see we can never be as strong Or as fast as them because we can't consume enough Elixir without going into a blood rage but you can The Elixir doesn't affect you the way it does everyone else you can have more of it without getting sick so what I asked so you might be the only one who can end this my head was spinning and I couldn't breathe Trevor's voice sounded far away like I was underwater I clutched my chest

gasping for breath my whole life had been a lie Daman said he'd never met anyone like me before now I knew why he looked so revolted when he bit me I wasn't even human I headed to the door but Trevor blocked my path we need to talk about this he said I pried his fingers off my arm I just found out I was adopted and now you want me to win your Rebellion for you short answer no [ __ ] way King Richard is too strong too powerful you don't know what he's done what he's

capable of I saw what happened to Penelope Trevor said I was there look I know you cared about her but this will keep happening if we don't do something I'm just here to heal my mom not join your godamn War I looked over at the strong proud woman I'd always known as my mother and realized I didn't even know what to call her anymore you think you have freedom Trevor pushed you don't the compounds aren't safe havens they're blood factories for the elite they need us more than we need them we can leave Anytime where

would we go I asked underground far away somewhere we can be free without subjecting ourselves to this he gestured at my neck with a trace of disgust in his eyes even hatred I ran my fingers over my skin and feeling the light bumps where Damian bit me could Trev see them or was he just guessing it's not what you think I said he never forced me of course he did Trevor said it's what they do they get in your head you can't Even know if the decisions you make are your own and now you're protecting

him Trevor said his eyes narrowing Damian doesn't need my protection I said but I won't help you hurt him he's not what you think he's not keeping things from me actually he told me about what happened before with John Patton he even took me there to quum Trevor's eyes widened in surprise you know where it is he asked quietly I also found Jon's notebook I continued maybe I can make a Copy and get it to Marcus Trevor nodded then relaxed he was looking at me differently now I'm sorry he said I thought you'd fall in

for him forgotten whose side you were on why does there have to to be sides I asked there's a war coming he said the elite will never see you as one of them you'll never be more than a common in their eyes just give me more time with him I said maybe we can still retrieve the formula without resorting to violence fine Trevor said for now the house I'd grown up in suddenly seemed too small or perhaps I'd grown too large Trevor and my mother had been conspiring against the kingdom behind my back and sharing

secrets about my true identity for the first time I felt a drift and out of place I thought I'd been coming home but I realized I didn't even know where that was anymore I'm going for a walk I said I need some air I'll come with you Trev said please please don't I said I need Some time to think then at least take this with you Trav said stuffing something into my coat jacket I felt the cold hard steel of something with a trigger and looked up at him it's not the same around here since

you left he said people are getting desperate not everyone is happy with the Covenant which makes you a target stay in the light make sure sure they see you wandering around alone isn't safe anymore I nodded then kissed my ex mom On the cheek thank you for telling me I said I may not be your mother she said but I'll always be your mom I wanted to jump over the gate and disappear into the silent woods instead I ran along the border of the compound within feet of the fence so close I could feel the

electric buzz and felt the hair on my arms lift I'd never felt so alone before Amber wouldn't understand any of this and I couldn't tell the other chosen in the Capital now I knew why I was renitent but I still didn't know what it actually meant branches tugged at my hair as I darted through the trees near the perimeter I ran and till my lungs achd then I doubled over gasping for breath all my life I'd felt out of place different now I knew why the man who taught me how to hunt the man who

raised me wasn't my real father My real father was some Elite and an [ __ ] from the sound of it my mother did her Duty as Chosen and they executed her for it but they were strangers to me a fantasy I broke down sobbing just as strong arms embraced me and pulled me off my feet I thrashed against daman's chest beating against him with my fists but he didn't let go until he' carried me inside his room at the inn and shut the door what is it Damian asked what's the matter I don't even

know who I am anymore I said I told him everything about who my real parents were he Listened without commenting when I was finished he patted my back and brushed away my tears I held him tighter against me and felt his muscles Flex under my grip my whole world was spinning and he was an anchor I leaned up and kissed him hungrily I only knew I wanted him and that there were too many many layers of clothes between us his blue eyes were stormy and I wanted to submerge myself in him but as usual he

pulled away am I really so terrible that you can't even Stand to be with me I asked hanging my head his eyes widened is that what you think Daman said lifting my chin that I don't like you that's not it that's not it at all I already knew you were different though I didn't know how before I was afraid to get too close to lose control I didn't want to hurt you but there's something else something I have to tell you something you deserve to know great I said crossing my arms more secrets Daman took

a deep breath And sat on the bed looking up at me through his eyelashes is whatever it was he wasn't sure if I could handle it but I was so tired of other people deciding what I could or couldn't handle I nodded at him to continue I told you about my friend the one who betrayed me the one my father made me kill in Quantum he said taking a breath I tasted him on you the same blood runs through your veins but that's why I pulled away what are you saying I asked sticking my hands

in My pockets to keep them from shaking I think John Patton is your grandfather someone from the village must have escaped they brought your mother to algrave and left her at the gates she grew up married an elite and had you but that's not possible I said Elite can't have children right Damian's expression hardened John Patton was working on a formula experimenting with DNA altering substances we thought he was working on A way to stop the elites to turn them human an antidote but what if he was actually working on something new what if he

experimented on his wife his infant daughter even himself which somehow allowed your mother to conceive and pass the gene onto you I'm IM muted I said great is that what renitent means in the early days of the compounds there were some people my father couldn't compulse we called them renitent my father wanted to breed it Out of the population to create a more docile subservient Community hundreds were put to death we thought they were all gone until you he leaned down and kissed my cheek I didn't see it at first I just saw a brave

girl facing down an elite I admired your courage it lit something in me made me feel alive for the first time in decades you filled a hole in my life I didn't know existed I've been fighting it but I can't anymore it's not just the thirst It's not just your blood it's you he kissed me again deeper this time and I melted into him Damian knew who I was what I was and he wanted me anyway it wasn't much but it was something he moaned his eyes full of raw passion I can't take this anymore

he said burying his head in my hair what I asked being this close to you smelling you but not being allowed to taste you who says you're not allowed I said a smile forming on my lips after all we Are getting married soon aren't we unless you've changed your mind he grinned then picked me up and tossed me on the bed I reached for his shirt and tore it off him I didn't know who I was anymore or what happened next all I knew was how his skin felt against mine how his touch opened up

things inside me I'd never experienced before I reached for his belt buckle then peeled off my jacket and tossed it on the floor I heard the heavy weight of the gun hit The ground then the bang as the gunpowder exploded firing a silver bullet straight at the wall daman's eyes widened and he twisted quickly to cover my body with hair is protecting me before I could explain there were more shots outside and then someone screamed stay here Damien yelled reaching for the door before he could reach it the door burst in and we were surrounded

by royal guards in uniform they raised their rifles at us preparing to fire what's The meaning of this Damen roared not even reaching for his forgive the interruption Prince Hartman we've discovered the rebel stronghold and are making arrests and she's one of them the guard said pointing at me Damen was in his face a second later say that again he growled we've been tracking her movements the guard said tonight she snuck out and met two known Rebels we were able to record her he held up a Small device and I heard my voice just give

me more time with him maybe we can retrieve the formula that's not what it sounds like I said I would never there's more the guard said we believe this trip was all a ruse to lure you here we think the rebels were planning to kill you tonight and harvest your blood for Elixir that's absurd I said then can you explain why you're now carrying an illegal firearm the guard said reaching for my coat a Moment later he retrieved the pistol from the inside pocket I looked at Damien wanting to explain but the shock and hurt

on his face stole my words away he looked more vulnerable than I'd ever seen him was this your plan all along Damen muttered get me alone so you could kill me it's not true I said Trev just gave me that for protection I forgot he was even there I could see he wanted to believe me but he didn't object when the guards put large steel handcuffs around My wrists then led me outside in the street the battle raged on several men moved at superhuman speed slashing at one of the elite guards but he quickly outmaneuvered

them both across the street a house was burning and and the fire had spread to a tree in the front yard I could feel the heat from here my heart was pounding and I could feel dust from the road sticking to the sweat on my forehead I saw Trev bleeding from a gash in his forehead Being carried away he was reaching behind him for something and shouting I followed his gaze and looked towards my house the lights were still on and Jamie and laury stood stood outside crying I didn't understand why at first there was

too much noise and fire and smoke but then I saw the body lying in front of them wearing a pink cardigan and the leather sandals I'd made her for her birthday 3 years ago the woman I believed to be my mother the woman who Taught me how to peel an apple in one curly piece the woman we come to algrave to save dead on the ground her glassy eyes staring up at me in surprise her mouth open in a scream that rang in my ears and echoed through my own mouth a scream that shook the

universe and boiled my blood my skin trembled and I sank to my knees pounding my fists into the dirt and watering the Earth with tears of Rage chapter 23 I hadn't seen the sky in days though it was hard to Mark the passage of time in my cell in the prison Tower around windowless room I screamed at first pounding my fists into the barricaded door until my skin was ragged and bloody after days of seeing visions in the dark stones I started to miss the swirling Ash the hint of a light source behind the dark

gray clouds I waited for Damian to barge his Way in and save me as soon as he figured out the truth but what was the truth I wasn't a rebel or an assassin but that didn't mean I was Guiltless I knew about Trev and Marcus without telling him the gun was harder to explain but I was sure I could get Daman to believe me if he would just give me a chance but he never came every time I shut my eyes I saw the look of betrayal on Damian's face just before I was Arrested he

was probably thinking of John Patton my grandfather the only other human he'd been close to the only other human to wound him so deeply when the door did finally open it was King Richard he removed the wood panel but left the tight row of iron bars holding me in the cell I thought he was a mirage at first until he sat a bowl of soup on the ground and my stomach rumbled at the smell of food I wanted to throw it at him but slurped it down Instead then cleaned the bll with my fingers where's

Damian I asked finally what have you done with him do you think I'd hurt my own son the king asked if he hasn't visited you that's his choice so what's next I asked public execution like Penelope for what he asked the long lost daughter of a famous Rebel Mary's Prince Daman infiltrates the resistance and singlehandedly destroys the Rebellion that's a pretty good story Don't you think is that what you think happened what difference does it make what really happened I should be thanking you we figured the rebels might try to make contact so we've been

keeping a close eye on you you led us right to them you know you have your grandfather's eyes the same fire the quiet smoldering as if you'd love nothing more than to tear my heart out I should have seen it sooner where are my friends I asked you mean the other Rebels and curate Marcus I assume their lives are in your hands what are you talking about I asked marry my son he loves you I can tell you'd be good together good for each other you don't like how I'm running things fine you can change

them you'll have more power here with us then you'd ever have aiding the rebels you know as well as I do what would happen if the rebels ever actually succeeded they die out there unprotected and eventually So would we I know you're a Believer I saw it at renewal you killed my mother why would I help you I think we both know she wasn't your real mother he said and my guards tell me she resisted arrest but let's not make this all about me after all you did try and kill my son I'd never hurt

Ian I said quickly so maybe that pistol was meant for me it was meant for my protection and it wasn't my idea after all I've already been attacked by one Slag paaw in your Citadel that was unfortunate yes a message sent to my son I think we will find out who's responsible for that but until then I say we put this misunderstanding behind us and move forward in the trials you'll prove your strength Your Love Will unify the compounds your passion will inspire them it'll also keep out any Rogue Elite if they see the strength

of our family go to hell I said you will marry or you Will die it's your choice tell you what I'll add a incentive if you win the trials I'll spare what's left of your family I brought your siblings here under my protection after all they're orphans now I fought back at here thinking about Jamie and laury what about my friends I asked I'll leave their Fates in your hands he smiled I promise the day of the trials I had another Visitor Tobias entered the small cell a cape flowing behind him in what looked like

a guard's uniform I pulled away instinctively burrowing into the dark corner against the bricks his eyes softened and he reached out a hand gently to help me up I didn't mean to scare you he said King Richard gave me a promotion it came with some new CL clothes Master of Ceremonies you like he turned to show me the uniform but the smile didn't reach his Eyes what about Penelope I tried to ask but the words got stuck in my parched throat Tobias snapped his fingers and had the guards bring water and breakfast eggs toast and

bacon even a little coffee I practically fainted from the smell you get new clothes too Tobias said ignoring my question you're kidding I asked when he took out a pink dress and a white leather jacket with metal studs and padded elbows all the chosen are wearing them Tobias said not my Finest work but the king wanted something to make you look magnificent yet vulnerable and human in the past he's wanted the chosen to look like goddesses but this time he thinks it might alienate the compounds they'll be watching I asked the trials everyone will be

watching this is the biggest event of the year but why why are you helping him we can talk more after the trials he said all You need to do is survive is that all I scoffed I thought I was supposed to win the king seems pretty intent on a royal wedding he's not the only player on the board Tobias whispered leaning in closer I've heard talk among the elite that he's getting weak old some of them might make a move after all if it's good for the king it's bad for them the trials would be

the perfect opportunity to take you out and ruin whatever schemes he was Planning but who would dare the trials are dangerous fatalities are not unheard of you'll get 10 drops at the beginning of the trials and there's more hidden among the challenges but most elite cheat and will give their chosen extra Elixir to help them win there are some serious bets in place losing the trials could jeopardize their position at court their influence with the King their dut I for the next year just be Careful I watched the trials when I was younger I said

flat screens were brought in for the event The Chosen always seemed Invincible Fearless it's because they were high on Elixir Tobias said which will make the other chosen unpredictable even dangerous you can't trust anyone out there understand I nodded you have an advantage Tobias said dropping his voice then checked to make sure nobody was listening first The Elixir will hit you more than the others it'll make you stronger faster for longer they'll use theirs in bursts and it will run out by the end we only give the chosen 10 drops because anymore and they'd go

crazy with blood rage and start killing each other but you Tobias said you are special we don't even understand all the things you're capable of yet I've added a little something to your uniform he held up the sleeve of the White leather jacket and wrapped my finger around a little bulge hidden in the seam blood capsules Tobias whispered five drops each just bite into it to release the Elixir it should help you stay alive if you're careful at the end of the ceremony you could be nearly as fast as us what good would that do

I asked the king doesn't know your renitent Tobias said he doesn't know you can resist his compulsion which makes him Overconfident if he knew what you were capable of he would have killed you already you'll have a second maybe two when the king realizes he can't control you and you'll be close to him when he presents you the trophy for a second I didn't understand what he wanted me to do but then it sunk in you want me to kill the king I asked my eyes rounding in surprise was Tobias one of the rebels or

was this just revenge for Penelope we'll never get another chance like this Tobias said does Daman know he's confused right now Tobias said torn by his feelings for you and loyalty to his father but he'll come around what about Trev and curate Marcus and my family he'll kill them he won't have the chance Tobias said unless you miss I was allowed a hot bath and a private room to change clothes the outfit was SN hug and Theatrical but I saw Tobias had also added some practical Alterations in the design thicker leather around the elbows for

example the pink dress offered little in the way of protection but at least it didn't get in the way outside I had to raise my hands against the bright lights in the center of the city where the plaza used to be was an enormous maze made of wood and Vines the other chosen were dressed like me pink skirts and white leather jackets and looking out over the crowds Cina saw me first she smiled and Squeezed my hand Jasmine winked and Mary let out a little wave are you okay she mouthed I nodded wondering how much

they knew about where I'd been if the King was still expecting me to marry Damian he probably concealed the truth about what happened in algrave we were separated onto platforms and I watched the large screen as the king stepped into view seconds later his voice boomed over the loudspeakers hidden throughout the city though I Could see him sitting on his Royal balcony with a clear view over the whole city his voice seemed to be everywhere and nowhere all at once on this Noble day he said raising his hands this year's chosen will prove their devotion

and loyalty by voluntarily submitting to the trials which will test their faith and also their commitment this honors the Covenant and demonstrates that the chosen are willing Even eager Partners who will put themselves in danger on behalf of their Elite Partners this is their chance to prove themselves worthy of this great offer as many of you know this year is particularly special for me because this year I'll be gaining a daughter-in-law Emily Shero please step forward I hesitated only a second before stepping forward as asked but I couldn't give the king any reason to suspect

ECT Me not yet I waved to the crowd and smiled my image was projected on the giant screens spread throughout the city it was the first time I'd seen my face since my mother's death I wondered how many tears had been shed since then and how Tobias managed to cover up all that sadness with a little makeup and ey Shadow I almost hated the girl smiling for the cameras she looked too happy too pretty too composed like she didn't even care but I had to play the part for now Damian was standing next to his

father in a crisp white tuxedo with a pink tie our eyes connected and even from this far away I could see the accusation in his eyes what would he say if he knew tobias's plan did he have any idea what was coming would he defend his father I shuddered at the image of needing to fight with Daman but it wouldn't come to that I had to be faster if the deed was done would Damian Embrace change maybe Damian would be a better ruler or would Killing his father turn him into another Tyrant and would the

rebels seriously let Damian live live or would they execute all the elite I didn't see how it would come to that even if I could defeat the king there were still dozens of elite in the Citadel they'd Massacre the humans and execute the traitors without the king's compulsion it would be fullon War until both sides had practically destroyed themselves I didn't agree with the King's methods but I couldn't imagine an alternative either way it all depended on me winning the trials then I could get close enough to kill the king or I could win the

trials and see if the king honored the deal he'd made with me free Trevor and the other captured Rebels no matter what I did people I cared about would get hurt after the initial announcements the cameras cut to a troop of of clowns and performers Master saboda took the moment To address US quietly she was wearing a solders jacket with white leather pants that matched our outfits it must be this year's theme it has been my honor and pleasure to serve you she said after we'd gathered around her whatever happens today remember you are each

other's best assets it will be easier to finish the trial if you work together it's a competition I heard Jessica whisper not a play dat finishing the trials is the first step Towards your new roles Master saboda continued you'll finally be able to choose your own Direction doors will open to you filled with experiences you can't now imagine you'll get a taste of Freedom that may leave you dizzy don't freeze up or hesitate when the door of opportunity opens go through it we bowed to the king then were shown to a large vase with flat

wooden sticks on the end of each was written a number our starting Positions after we'd picked a number we were given a small glass vial of Elixir guards pointed out the direction and we followed a series of stairs climbing higher until we Emer merged on the round roof of the palace high above the city what are we doing up here Jasmine said I thought they were going to give us a challenge I hope they don't make us fight Mary said they won't put us together deliberately Jessica sniped but accidents Happen look at this Cina said

calling us over to the edge of the roof the Bright Walls of the palace unfolded below us itself on a raised platform from this height I could see the whole city was shaped like a boat with concave walls that met at a point like hands praying the Royal Palace Renewal Center and high-end shops were all enclosed in the upper District where we were standing at the other end of the Citadel were the gardens where Damian had taken me my First night on the sides the walls fell swiftly away disappearing into the dark woods and gray

Mist Cina reached down and grabbed a black rope that was hanging off the edge I hadn't noticed it before but as she swung the Rope I realized it reached all the way down to the valley floor and disappeared into the trees far below connected to the wire was a metal holster and a wooden slate with a number scrolled on it piece of cake said Jasmine checking the other Tags until she found hers she reached for the harness and strapped it around her waist and shoulders no way Mary said they want us to jump a sudden

wind pushed me closer to the edge and I felt my heart rate Spike the height was dizzying see you on the other side Jasmine yelled she tightened the straps on her harness then stepped backwards off the platform and disappeared over the edge she plummeted nearly a 100 ft before picking up the slack in the line Then she zipped out suddenly parallel to the ground racing towards the forest she looked like a large pink bird soaring above the dark trees I held my breath then cringed as she hit the platform War hard but then she stood

up and brushed herself off Cina sucked in a breath of relief next to me some of the other girls were already following Jasmine's lead eager to get a head start on the others it's smart I said physically it's very simple but our mental anguish will Drain the Elixir those who lose Elixir to the early rounds will have less available later it's testing our courage so what should we do asked Mary wait until the last minute to drink The Elixir I said then jump hopefully you'll arrive before the Elixir kicks in that way you won't lose

as much I strapped into the harness and Uncorked my screw I downed The Elixir and stood on the edge a gust of wind Blew my dress I looked around to see most of the girls had already jumped the wires spread out in all directions from the roof leading to starting positions outside the gates in the woods is it safe out there Mary asked her voice wavering I remembered what Tobias had told me that the other chosen might try and hurt me that they might also have extra elixir on them in secret what would I face

in the woods I felt ridiculous in this Gauzy pink Dress and completely defenseless against the ash but then I felt the Elixir kick in suddenly the height which a moment ago made my Palms sweat and my knees weak no longer intimidated me we'll go on three okay I asked three I yelled jumping off the roof of the palace my heart flew to my throat as the ground rushed up at me but then I felt myself whisked sideways I opened my eyes my face down towards the trees I lifted my arms out like Wings and whooped

a broad smile on my face then I looked up towards the quickly approaching platform I was going way too fast and I had no idea how to stop a flash of movement caught my eye a figure was leaping across the trees towards my platform I saw the flash of a blade as they leaned over my wire a second later the line snapped and I fell like a stone into the trees I brought my arms up to fend off the branches but one caught me In the stomach and I felt my rib crack with the wind

knocked out of me I tumbled through the branches and hit the ground hard I couldn't breathe I couldn't move for a moment I lay there feeling the warm dirt beneath me a light Ash was falling and I felt a flake singe my cheek the glowing Ember burned my skin but I didn't even Flinch it felt like a mosquito bite seconds ticked by but then I I felt the Elixir warming its way through my body It slid up my legs and when it reached my ribs I felt an intense burning sensation suddenly my lungs opened and

I gasped down a gulp of air feeling a searing pain in my side but then it faded and I could breathe normally again I rolled over and checked my bracelet 3% I'd lost over half my Elixir already and the trials had barely started I climbed back up the tree quickly pulling myself easily from Branch to Branch when I reached the platform I saw no sign of The figure who'd slashed my line I took a deep breath feeling the ash in my lungs but it didn't hurt or burn I knew the Elixir would protect me but

it felt strange to be in the a without a mask of some kind the platform was linked to another with a thin wooden log without thinking I dashed onto the log and sprinted across it after smashing into a tree at full speed this 100 foot drop didn't seem so scary I followed the logs which made a path back Towards the Citadel until I heard the hum of drones I looked up and saw dozens of them flying towards me extruding from their round bodies was a small metal arm glowing with blue light one of the drones

flew next to me and flicked the little baton at my arm my body went rigid as electricity coarsed through me I clenched my jaw and bit my tongue so hard I tasted blood I ducked as the next orb came at me almost slipping off the Log I dodged the electric baton this time then punched the side of the Drone knocking it away from me I took two large steps forward across the log but another drone flew directly in my path this was going to take forever I jumped on top of the orb then Dove towards

another flying higher up I grabbed it with my fingertips and brought it down barred against the log smashing it nearly in two pieces I tossed it down in a plume of Sparks and Smoke another one shocked me from behind drawing my shoulder blades together I saw a glint of something shiny on a platform about half a mile away I sprinted burning up as much elixir as I could with the Drone right on my heels then I jumped from for the sword Camina got it first she grabbed the blade and rushed towards me I ducked as

she sliced the blade over my head cutting one of the drones in half then skewered another they'll keep coming she Said we have to keep moving I took her hand as she helped me up eyeing the sword wearily Mrs soda asked me to keep an eye out for you live together or die apart right right I said with a sigh of relief let's do this we raced forward Kamina with a sword until we caught up with the others Mary and Jasmine were waiting on a large platform near the city Gates what's the problem Cina asked

tight rope Jasmine pointed but it goes straight into that Wall there's nothing to hang on to or climb the top of theall wall is too high to jump several girls tried it already Mary said they fell down there they didn't come out again she pointed down into the dark Chasm beneath the wire I kicked a pebble over the edge and waited but we never heard it make contact with the bottom maybe there's another way in Cina asked I came from that direction Mary said Jasmine came from the other way between us we've nearly walked all

The way around the Citadel all the gates are locked and guarded there's a vile of Elixir up there I said pointing about 30 ft above the tight RPP a narrow hole was cut into the wall barely a foot high inside I recognized The Familiar shape of a glass vial if one of us could reach it I said maybe she could pull the others up but it's too high Mary said even if we work together we won't reach it just then Jessica climbed the stairs and joined us on the platform she glared At us but before

we could react I felt the platform shift a buzzer rang and I heard a mechanical clink above us then a swish as something heavy was released look out out I yelled I pulled Jasmine away from the ledge just as an enormous blade whizzed past us six more fell swinging like giant double-edged axes they missed the Wire by a hair what did you do Mary shouted at Jessica nothing she said I couldn't find another way around it's pressure Sensitive Camina said they must know we need a certain number of people to reach that ledge now that

Jessica is here we have to cross together and help each other up remember what Master saboda said she was warning us we had to work together and fast I said I think those blades are getting lower if they cut the wire we'll all be trapped here through the blades which shrieked through the air like spinning Guillotines we could see a small platform jutting out from a Vast stretch of smooth concrete it was barely wide enough for a Toe Hold far above was the entrance a thin wedge cut into the Rock we've got to do this

quickly Cina said Jasmine you and I go first we'll form a ladder you get the vial and toss it down to me I'll lift everyone up why do you get the Elixir Jessica asked because I have the longest arms Cina replied Crossing her arms I'm also the strongest physical strength doesn't Matter as much as our ability to harness The Elixir Jessica said there's also the fact that none of us trust you Jasmine said fair enough Jessica Shrugged tossing back her hair the blades were low enough now I could see the wire vibrating there's no time

I said we have to go now I held my breath as Jasmine paused counted then stepped forward in a series of carefully timed steps placing her exactly between The Swinging blades at the right moment Cina went next then It was my turn with the Elixir my nerves were St steady and calm I watched the giant axes swooping low and counted the gaps my body seemed to move on its own dancing across the suspended cable which was now vibrating wildly each time the blades dropped they were sawing through the cable I took the vibration in my

legs holding on to the cable with my feet as I sped between the axes I was almost to the platform when one of the blades sliced through my Dress leaving my left thigh exposed a scrap of pink fabric floated gently down towards the Treetops I spun around the final blade and clutched onto Cina and Jasmine whose feet already took up most of the platform you first Jasmine nodded at me I climbed on kamina's back and stood on her her shoulders leaning against the wall Mary was right behind me followed by Jessica when the cable split

a look of panic crossed their faces and things seemed to Move in slow motion Jessica Dove for the end of the wire and sank below the blades I saw a bit of her hair get trimmed off at a diagonal angle Mary disappeared completely it took me a second to find her she'd been knocked off by The Last Blade but had somehow turned in midair and was clinging to the long thin beam holding it up Jessica climbed up the Rope until she was on the platform and then pulled herself over the top of us Until she

was on my shoulders she stretched herself up but was still too far away to reach the ledge push me up higher she shouted it's no use without Mary I said pointing as Mary swung by us at tremendous speed jump I shouted on the next pass Mary Dove off The Swinging axe but I knew immediately she'd got the angle wrong she was heading straight at the wall catch me Jessica shouted then she dove into the air I had just enough time to Grab one of her Ang ankles which pulled me backwards off kamina's shoulders head first

into the dark Chasm I felt a tremendous weight and groaned but held my grip looking down over my head I could see Jessica had caught Mary I held her leg with both hands and realized we'd stopped falling Jasmine grabbed my ankles and Camina was holding hers we were connected a string of chosen dangling in the wind I looked over and saw a camera Drone with its blinking red light and imagined the crowd holding their breath in suspense we were giving them a good show I can't hold you Camina shouted she'd wrapped her legs around the

broken wire for leverage but her face was red from the exertion you need to climb up Jasmine and yelled down at me Mary first Jessica yelled when Mary crawled over me I saw she had a deep gash in her leg and she was losing blood fast but she made it to the platform followed by Jessica When it was my turn I climbed over Jasmine to the platform then continued up the wall I climbed up on Jessica's shoulders then Jasmine climbed up on top of me Comm Cina was heavier but we bore her weight as she

climbed to the top of our pyramid we're still too short Cina shouted when she got to the top can you jump I asked Cina took a tentative jump upwards then tried again higher but Jasmine missed her foot and she slid down catching herself on my shoulders Mary yelled out and nearly lost her grip her face was white and her skin sweaty I heard her bracelet beep as it hit zero wait I yelled Mary needs to be the one to get the Elixir but then how will we get in Jasmine asked Mar's life is worth more

than winning the trials right if you say so Jessica smiled sweetly Mary once you get the Elixir you'll haul us up we changed positions and Mary climbed until she was standing on Jessica's Shoulders I can't reach she shouted who has the most Elixir left Camina asked maybe they can push us up high enough for Mary to grab the ledge I have the most I lied I strained my neck towards my wrist then bit into the hidden capsule in my sleeve sucking down the precious drops of Elixir I felt strength surged through me I pushed up

as hard as I could throwing both Jessica and Mary higher Mary grabbed onto the edge of the platform But then cried out in pain as Jessica grabbed her legs let go I yelled she can't climb up with your weight Jessica looked down at me a Sly smile on her lips then climbed over Mary and seized the vile don't do it I warned Mary needs that she's hurt oh come on they wouldn't actually let one of us die would they you always thought you were better than me didn't you everyone fawning over you the prince is

chosen but you're nothing I'm going to win the trials I'm going to Be the champion she smiled then gulped down the Elixir and raced ahead that [ __ ] Jasmine said Cina can you throw us up again if I can reach Mary we'll all climb up together Kamina groaned but extended her arms pushing us several feet higher I used the momentum to kick off Jasmine's shoulders then ran several feet up the vertical wall twisting off it to catch Mary's ankles I felt extra weight below me and checked To see both Jasmine and Cina hanging below

quickly Mary yelled I can't hold it Cina scrambled up into the AL Cove and grabbed Mary's arms Cina climbed up next then it was my turn I breathed a sigh of relief when I ducked into the narrow ledge then I reached back to help Mary up I froze when I saw the flash of a knife Mary's eyes were glassed over staring at the Horizon but her aim was true I grabbed her wrist with both hands halting the blade an inch from my chest But I had no leverage and now that she'd let go of the

wall Mary's weight pulled backwards we plummeted towards the woring blades I fell onto the small ledge below and grabbed Mary's dress as she fell past me I heard the fabric ripping but it held but then Mary turned towards me her eyes blank and unfocused someone was compulsing her don't I said don't make me do this she swung the blade and there was nothing I could do but let go I cried out as she Fell backwards into the dark Cavern and was swallowed by the abyss I pulled myself up onto the narrow ledge with my back

against the wall my legs trembled as I looked up at the ledge above me Cina and Jasmine peered down at me there was no way to reach them go ahead I yelled I'll find another way we won't leave you Jasmine shouted back even with my brain firing with Elixir I could couldn't see any way to reach the narrow ledge by myself I checked my device and Saw I was at 8% I reached down for the tight wire and ripped it out of the stone I tried to toss one end up to Cina but it was

too short the blades continued to swing past at a dizzying speed I paused to watch their full Arc and realized how close they got to the top of the wall all if I could use their momentum to fling myself over before I could think too much about it I made a loop with the wire and tossed it around the front edge of the Axe it took all my strength just to hang on as I was whipped sideways then tossed High into the air too high I sailed up over the wall there was a weightless sensation

just before I began Falling Again I pulled out the sides of my jacket catching just enough air to angle me forward towards one of the sculpted bushes inside the Citadel I landed hard but the leaves and branches broke my fall I lay in the dirt catching my breath that was amazing Jasmine said running up to me Kamina joined us and hoisted me up I thought you'd get SP lit in half for sure she said I'm glad you didn't the three of us pressed forward into the city we heard shouts and ran forward until we saw

two other chosen they were surrounded by hundreds of robotic spiders each as big as a dog and fighting them off back to back help one of them screamed when she saw us Cina charged forward with her sword slicing through the mechanic Arachnids Jasmine kicked one into a shower of sparks then grabbed a round table and smashed three at once before hurling the table Into The Horde and knocking out a dozen others I looked around for a weapon but the only thing I could find was a street sign I wrenched the metal pull out of the

ground it was taller than I was but I swung it low sweeping the ground of the crawling devices one of them jumped on my back digging into my skin with its razor Sharp legs another crawled up the sign and onto my arm I pried it off me with my other hand just as it was about to bite its fangs glistening with Venom I tossed it into the air and swung at it with the metal rod of the sign sending it sailing into a cloud of spark and debris finally we destroyed all the Bots I looked

up to see Kamina leaning over the other chosen but they were on the ground and not moving we were too late dead Jasmine asked I don't think so Kamina answered just unconscious the spiders must have injected them with something Jasmine ripped a leg off one of the spiders then stuffed two more in her belt what she said they're sharp we moved forward through the city until we reached the edge of the maze finally we were close enough to see the main stage of the palace the King was dressed in purple velvet wearing a large Golden

Crown Damian was next to him in his White suit then I saw Jamie and laureli sitting between them the king winked at me and put his hands on their shoulders possessively he was using them as a shield I felt sick and bile Rose in my throat even if I made it to the end of the trials I wouldn't be able to make a move without putting them in danger and where were Trevor and curate Marcus the king said their fate would be in my hands but what did that even mean That's when I realized King

Richard would never let them go not really he'd always keep me controlled by threatening those I cared about he'd use Damian and I against each other manipulating our emotions but Tobias thought I could stop it I just had to win the trials look Jasmine shouted at the center of the leafy maze was a tall pedestal with a golden trophy on top but that's not where Jasmine was pointing Jessica was Halfway through the maze fighting something we couldn't see last one there's a rotten egg Jasmine shouted jumping towards the opening of the large hedge Cina Shrugged

and followed after her Jessica had a huge Head Start and I'd never beat the others I looked into the stands again this time I sought out Master svaboda she met my eye and nodded to the side at something I couldn't see instead of going into the maze I ran back up towards the wall then Across a ledge beneath the palace I grinned when I saw the curved bow with the barbed arrows half hidden in a patch of ivy I ran back up to the garden and searched for the wire I'd used to swing over the

walls it was heavy but I tied one end around an arrow and Drew back the bow now I just had to find something to swing from I shot the arrow down into the center of the maze through the Hedge just beyond the pedestal and pulled it Back to make sure it was caught I tied the other end around a tree trunk wrapped my jacket around the wire and slid down towards the clearing I zoomed over several layers of the labyrinth and even past Jessica who was almost at the center I let go of the wire

just in time to land on the raised platform right in front of the trophy I reached out for it but something felt wrong I glanced up at the king he was smiling smiling and leaning forward Eagerly was this his plan all along did he want me to win it was all too easy after tobias's warning I expected more just then someone grabbed my ankle and flung me off the pedestal with surprising Force I hit the ground and rolled until I hit the Hedge when I lifted my eyes Jessica was standing over me her fists and

jaw dripping with blood one side of her head was practically shaved from her near miss with the giant axes on the other side her long blonde Curls bounced as she snarled bearing her teeth more she rasped seizing my wrist and dragging me to my feet I need more I kicked her in the stomach as she snapped at my neck like a rabid dog just then her bracelet beeped a warning she'd consumed too much elixir and the blood lust took over my blood chilled as I realized she must have already attacked one of the other chosen

now she was even stronger and wouldn't stop until she'd sucked The Elixir out of my veins she rushed in slashing at me with her fingers wide like claws I blocked and rolled to the side but she kicked my legs then grabbed me around the waist and hurled me into the stone pedestal I reached for my bow but she stepped on my wrist I reached with my other hand straining towards the trophy if I could just reach it this would all be over but she was too strong I pushed down hard with my free arm and

kicked my legs hard into to Jessica's Chin she stepped off my arm and the momentum carried me upward high enough to stick my foot through the handle of the golden trophy and bring it crashing down on her forehead a stream of blood ran down her brow she blinked the blood out of her eye and stumbled backwards in confusion I picked up the trophy wearily was it over I expected cheers from the crowd but instead there was only a chilling Silence then a screeching noise of a heavy door opening the audience Rose to their feet shouting

at us and pointing leaves crunched behind me and I heard heavy footsteps and panting I raised my bow as Jasmine and Cina came running to the Center Plaza and fired at the lpaw just behind them my arrow buried itself in his chest but didn't slow it down I rolled to the side as it reached for me with its massive Paws Jasmine hacked at It from the side with twin blades but then it turned around and cornered her against the Hedge look out Camina yelled the slag paaw dragged its claws tearing through the Hedge but Kam

jumped in front of Jasmine and took the brunt of the blow she collapsed bleeding from the deep Cuts in her arm and sigh Jasmine leaned over her protectively as the Beast closed in Jessica whistled at me then nodded to the wire I'd used earlier her eyes were clear and focused again She Dove just under the creature's jaw grabbed the end of the wire and rolled over its back I grabbed the other end of the wire as the slag paaw snapped after her and pulled it in the opposite direction I gripped the wire so tightly I

could feel my fingers bleeding the slag paaw roared in pain but we didn't let go until the wire cut through the beast's neck and it stopped moving Jessica gave me a slight smile And a nod but then her eyes went wide and I felt hot breath on the back of my neck the second slag paaw knocked me over with its paw before I could turn around here Jasmine shouted tossing me the long blades she'd pulled from the mechanical spiders I grabbed them in midair then slashed at the Beast it snarled at me coming close but

didn't attack there was something curious in its eyes something I recognized it whimpered like it was Trying to say something then I remembered a passage from the book in Damian's office about men who could turn into wolves and my heart stopped as I realized that somehow this great Beast was Trevor and I was about to kill him I stared the Beast Down weapons raised but neither of us moved to attack I wondered how much of Trev was still in there and if he even recognized me finish this the king yelled from the Balcony I looked

up at him frowning I could feel him pushing his way inside my brain the tingling on my scalp the tendrils of his will wrapping around my wrists dragging my arms towards the slag paa's throat this was his big plan and he'd already told me about it he wanted to use me as a symbol his sons chosen singlehandedly defeating the rebel leaders he wanted it to be me he wanted me to kill Trevor my friend just as he'd Made Damian do it years before their f is in your hands no I said quietly I'd already lost

too much I wouldn't let him take Trevor to even if it meant losing the trials I dropped my swords and they clattered to the ground in the sudden silence the audience gasped collectively and then I heard shouting as I held my bare Palms up towards the creature it leaned forward sniffing my Palms until its wet snout brushed against my bare Skin I must be crazy King Richard looked at me in confusion and I saw something like Panic on his face for a split second our eyes met and I knew he knew what I was that

I was different that he couldn't control me I only had one chance to surprise him and I i' just lost it seize her he shouted Royal Guards descended towards us soon we'd be surrounded I picked up my blades and turned my back on the slag paaw Determined to protect Trevor but just then an explosion rocked the platform and one of the side doors to the stadium was blast open I saw a woman with dark hair jump down down into the arena and stab one of the royal guards several others followed her lead Master Fab's speech

rang in my ears and I could hear her voice in my head when the door opens go through it without thinking I gripped my fingers around the dark gray fur and jumped onto the slag paaw squeezing with My bare thighs I raced through the m days cutting down Royal Guards I grabbed the street sign I used earlier and rode straight towards the king wielding it like a javelin but he held up Jamie and Laurel and smiled I couldn't help them not right now this way I heard Jasmine shout I glanced back and saw her exit

the maze with Cina draped over her shoulder she was pointing towards the hole in the wall Rebels with rifles were fighting Off guards and Elite I helped Jasmine pull Kamina onto the slag paaw then we raced together towards the opening tror bit into one of the guards with his powerful jaws then flung him to the side I held on tight as he barreled through a dozen others we ducked through the hole in the wall cut in through the narrow city streets but stopped when we reached the main gates the rebels were trapped with their backs

to the port Cullis something must have gone wrong We're locked in Jasmine shouted pointing at the Led iron grill blocking the exit there are two levers she said you grabbed that one we climbed the twin guard towers to reach the giant wheels they were almost as big as I was I clenched my teeth trying to turn the mechanism but it wouldn't budge then I remembered I still had one more dose of Elixir I bit into my sleeve feeling A Rush of energy as The Elixir hit my Blood and cranked the wheel it still wouldn't move

I looked over at Jasmine but she'd stopped trying and was just standing by a figure dressed in white Damen and I locked eyes and for a second I thought it was all over then he nodded and began turning the wheel on the other side I cranked mine forcing the gate open inch by inch my arms burning like fire when it was all the way up I watched Jasmine jump behind Kamina on top of the slag paaw then waited until They were through the gate I released my lever and darted over the side just as a

large group of Royal Guards turned the corner still charged with Elixir I cut through them stabbing one with the other's sword then ducking between two others I rolled past another severing an artery near his groin with a flash of my blade and sprinted forward but the iron grill was falling too fast fast I wasn't going to make it just then a white blur flew past me Damian caught The Iron Gate with his shoulder then sank to his knees groaning under the weight get out of here he yelled my father he knows what you are what

you can do you aren't safe here it's the only way you'll be free I rolled under the gate just as Damien let it fall it crashed to the ground so hard the floor shook come with us I said turning back to Damian I can't he said he's my father I leaned in and kissed him through the bars his eyebrows widened in Surprise arrest the traitor a voice yelled rough hands tore Daman out of my grasp and I saw the flash of silver manacles just before a line of archers appeared on the Citadel walls I licked

my lips and tasted blood Damian's blood there was a flash of memory a buried trunk an unmarked grave I felt it on my tongue savoring the flavor as the extra Elixir renewed my energy then I jumped onto Trevor's back behind Kamina And rode the giant slag paaw towards the woods under a thick torrent of arrows and poisonous Ash this has been a taste of vampire written by DS Murphy narrated by Kim Churchill if you enjoyed this book find out what happens next in thirst for Vampire the second book in the Kingdom of blood and Ash

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