Divided

Cadenza's Revenge

A/N: This chapter is the longest chapter I have written by far:) It is beyond 5,000 words and I'm so excited for you to read it.

Disclaimer: This chapter does include deaths, so if it's not your cup of tea, do yourself a favor:)

Caterina's POV

I stifle a yawn as a soft knock echoes through the room. "Come in," I call, and the door swings open to reveal Yvette, her expression bright with purpose. She steps inside, the scent of lavender trailing behind her as she turns on the shower and lays out an array of dresses and shimmering hairpins on the bed.

After a refreshing shower, I step out and let Yvette dress me in a beautiful brown gown. The fabric hugs my torso like a corset before cascading into a flowy skirt that dances around my ankles. Silver jewels glisten on the bust, catching the light and adding a touch of grace. I can't help but admire my reflection for a moment, feeling a strange mix of elegance and apprehension.

Yvette leads me down the sweeping staircase, each step echoing against the grand walls of the castle. As we enter the dining room, I spot Celeste, Alistair, Ajia, and Tzan gathered around the table, deep in conversation, their voices lilting in a melodic language I'm still trying to grasp.

"Good morning, Cat!" Ajia greets me with her vibrant blue and red eyes sparkling with excitement. "Hello everyone," I reply, scanning the table before my gaze settles on Queen Celeste. Her presence commands respect, and I lower my eyes, feeling the weight of her authority.

As the royal maids bring out an impressive spread of food, Celeste nods subtly, granting us permission to dig in. I take a piece of the perfectly seasoned meat, savoring the burst of flavors on my palate. Compliments to the chef indeed.

"Alistair will take Caterina and Ajia with him today so Caterina can understand how our world runs," Celeste announces, causing me to nearly choke on my water. Alistair glances at her, his eyebrows raised in surprise, but a hint of amusement dances in his eyes as he squeezes her hand.

"This is a whole different world you've stumbled upon. You must learn our ways while you're here," Celeste continues, her tone firm but kind. I nod, my mind racing with the possibilities.

"Wait," I interject, a question bubbling to the surface. "I know Alistair has covered my scent, but I've read that supernaturals don't have heartbeats. Does that mean they can detect the sound of mine?" I ask, genuinely puzzled.

"Well yes," Celeste replies, her voice calm. "Those without heartbeats are vampires and undead creatures. Witches and werewolves have heartbeats, which is why it's safe for you to join us." I take a moment to process her words, my mind whirling with new information.

Curiosity prompts me to ask, "Since you're mixed, do you have one?" I direct my question to Celeste, who offers a small, knowing smile as she glances at Alistair.

"I didn't have one, but I do now," she says, her eyes sparkling with an emotion I can't quite place. "When I was born, I was without a heartbeat. It was like that for centuries, until I found my mate. For the first time, my rusty heart began to beat, and it was an entirely new experience." Her words resonate deeply within me, and I feel a flicker of understanding.

"Do you have one, Ajia?" I turn to her, eager to know more.

"Yes! A very fast one!" she chirps, giggling as her face lights up with delight. We all smile at her enthusiasm, her joy infectious.

Once our meal concludes, Ajia and I linger near the door, observing as Alistair leans down to kiss Celeste's forehead, a tender moment that warms my heart. "Do you have a mate, Ajia?" I ask, curious about her thoughts on love.