We're Almost Home

the whispers

A loud crack of opening window shutters, signalling it was already after sundown, caught Selene's attention after a long while of restless pondering. She quickly jumped out of her giant bed and changed into a more elegant attire, consisting of black, flowy, embroidered trousers and a matching blouse. The Elder scanned her image in the mirror, scrunched her nose slightly, and heedlessly brushed through her hair; the coarse habits of a Death Dealer were still very much alive in her.

The palace came alive slowly - footsteps pattered on the stairs, the heavy doors creaked, and muffled voices became gradually audible.

Selene dreaded this moment. Not so much because she feared it but mostly because she did not want prying eyes and unnecessary attention focused on her precious daughter. She needed no telepathy to know her child was very delicate and prone to getting overwhelmed. But it was nearly impossible to avoid contact with the vampires of the coven. Eve would not be staying in her bedroom forever. Eventually, she would have to leave the safety of her four walls. The woman well knew that the sole fact her daughter was a hybrid would stir up many whispers of disgust and prejudiced comments among the vampires.

But heavens help them. If they don't keep it for themselves, they will have me to deal with.

Quiet, girly giggles and lively conversation echoed in the bedroom as Eve sat comfortably nestled in an armchair, excitedly chatting with David right next to her.

"And have you got any idea how much the poor recruits are terrified of your mother?" The man asked, "Sometimes I hear them talk about how they're too afraid to spar with her, fearing she would crush all of their bones," he laughed.

"No, really? But mum seems like such an easygoing and sweet teacher," the girl jested, her face painted with a look of sarcastic disbelief.

"Well, she is infamous for being quite cold, temperamental and ruthless at times," David's voice got calmer now, "but make no mistake, she will never be this way to you," he assured, "She loves you more than she cares to admit," He explained sincerely and rubbed the girl's shoulder. Eve smiled and nodded at him.

"I know. I mean, I can see and feel it. Mum's different now," she admitted. She opened her mouth, about to say something more. But the sound of an opening door and someone walking in stopped the girl.

Selene could not say she was surprised to see David and Eve spending time together. From the moment they met, he was protective of her, like an older brother. And they took an instant liking to each other. What surprised the woman was how quickly the room went silent when she entered.

David stood up at once, "Selene, it's good you're here. I was about to go and get you."

The vampiress made a questioning face and furrowed her brow, "Why, did something happen?"

"Nothing happened, per se..." he hesitated.

"Oh, spit it out," she commanded.

"The Council is meeting at midnight, and the members would like to know whether you will join us," he explained.

"By members, you mean Cassius, right," She probed and gave him an irritated glance.

With an apologetic look on his face, he just nodded. David knew that Cassius respected Selene as an Elder and a figure of authority and strength. But he also had objections about her violent history, her background and especially her relationship with Michael Corvin.

Selene was no fool. She was not oblivious to what The Council thought of her. Normally, she would not be hesitating whether she should attend, but the circumstances were different now. Difficult questions about her child would arise. Collect yourself, Selene. All they will do is talk. They cannot do anything to her.