In "The Eternal Burden," embark on an enthralling journey with Nataleea, a woman burdened by a tumultuous past entwined with secrets, curses, and a string of dark deeds. From the poverty of Italy to a turbulent marriage in America, Nataleea's life t...
For centuries, I have lived in secrecy, hidden from the world until now. Stefan knew the risks, but he couldn't help but want to know her name - Elena. She's a dead ringer for Katherine. Damon appeared out of nowhere, killing Zach and Tanner, and turning Vicki. I was forced to end Vicki's life, and I regret not ending Damon's existence for his transgressions. Stefan and Elena are experiencing relationship struggles, as usual. I planted a crystal that originally belonged to Emily Bennett, part of an old deal.
Damon seeks the return of his crystal, determined to have his way, and he ruined Stefan's birthday last night, slaying Lexi, who I turned. The connection I share with those I turn to allows me to feel their pain, and her death deeply wounds me. To maintain my disguise, I cast a spell to appear 19 years of age. No one should have messed with me, and they will soon learn the consequences of their actions.
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Yesterday's events infuriated me further, pushing the Salvatore brothers up on my list of people to deal with. Today, I have to put on a facade of normalcy, acting as if Damon didn't ruthlessly kill Lexi the previous night. It's a miracle I haven't resorted to torturing him yet, but I'm saving that pleasure for later.
Three rings of flame encircled three women I had never seen before, filling me with confusion. Suddenly, I felt myself awakening as if summoned from a trance.
Every morning, I step into the shower and proceed with my regular routine. I then close my eyes, murmuring an incantation while applying a special paste to my face. Magically, my appearance transforms, making me appear 19 years old, completely concealing my true age of 22.
I head straight to school, feeling a little paler than usual due to my reduced blood intake. I stop by the grill to grab a coffee, hoping it will warm me up and make me appear less pale. Once at school, I quickly drop off my completed history exam in class.
"Good morning, everyone," the new teacher, Alaric Saltzman, announces, using the chalkboard to introduce himself. "I know 'Saltzman' is a mouthful. It's of German origins, and my family immigrated here in 1755, hailing from Texas. I, however, was born and raised in Boston."He continues, "The name 'Alaric' belongs to a deceased great-grandfather, for whom I am eternally grateful. While some of you might be tempted to pronounce it as 'Allarick,' it's actually pronounced 'Alar-rick.' So, feel free to address me as 'Rick.' I am your new history teacher." He says
There was something about him that didn't sit right with me. I couldn't shake the feeling that he knew more than he let on. I decided to keep a close eye on him and follow him after school.
"Hey, Mr. Saltzman," Jeremy begins, slightly nervous. "You wanted to see me? My name's Jeremy Gilbert."
Mr. Saltzman chuckles and replies, "Yes, I did. Your old teacher apparently had a 'jackass' file. No kidding, it's labeled and everything. It mentions the 'trouble makers,' but really it's just an ongoing list about you and a couple of other students. Don't worry, though. I'm not him. A fresh start, clean slate."
