Claws of Eternity ✔️

Chapter 18: Jar of Hearts

JACK

Jack had gotten used to the warm climate of Cardona, so upon exiting his carriage he was unpleasantly surprised when he stepped on the snow-covered land. He was glad he came during the night, since he hasn't eaten in three days and the sun would be quite a problem. The sight of the Windsor Castle spread in front of him like a stone giant, built solely on the foundation of old money and unbelievable power. Nothing could compare to this building, no other castle in the world was as magnificent. For a few moments, Jack stared at the countless windows. Built almost four hundred years ago, it had the touch of mystery surrounding it. Running into a long lost dungeon full of bones or a chamber consisting of forgotten secrets wouldn't be a surprise in a place like this. It took him years before he eventually reached the front gate, guards eyeing him suspiciously on his way in.

Jack had to admit, the feeling of entering residential palace of Lord Augustin Bryce was something he rarely felt. One was simply stunned by the immense power that radiated from the walls of this place, the power coming from no one other than Lord Bryce.

Once he managed to enter the castle, vampire soldiers surrounded him.

"My name is Jack O'Neal, here to speak to His Grace." He spoke loudly, hoping that the proper use of the title might persuade them to let him in. Fear surged through Jack once he realised the soldiers aren't going to talk to him. Because they had no tongues.

After staring at him for a while more, soldiers formed a line that clearly suggested the path for Jack to follow. He walked for some time through the outrageously big hallways, decorated by candles resting in golden candlesticks. Through the entirety of his path, pictures of powerful kings and their consorts hung from the walls.

A man brought up to a house with no money and no power, had to crumble beneath the sight of all this gold spread across every available surface, doors, door knobs, chandeliers.

Jack's restlessness grew as he approached the room in which surely Lord Bryce did something despicable. He was a man without an ounce of tolerance, feared by every lord and lady in all of the Monarchy. Except for Lerra De Noves, Jack thought and sighed. Only Lerra was never afraid of Bryce, only Lerra had the courage to murder his spawn, even more evil than the father himself. Then, why was he about to betray her? Because she doesn't respect you. A voice reached his mind and Jack's determination was back.

Bryce's soldiers opened the door to his chambers.

"Jack!" A strong voice roared across the room. "Such a pleasant surprise! I knew you would come to your senses eventually. Come, sit, have some tea!"

Lord Bryce was a tough man, well-built and strong. Even though his demeanour seemed righteous, a creepiness lingered around him. His hair was half grey, as were his eyes; once upon a time surely blue as the summer sky.

"Your Grace." Jack kneeled in front of him.

"Just in time for my candidature! Very lovely! But tell me, what brings you here?" Lord Bryce chugged from a flagon adorned in gold. He placed it on a small wooden table and approached Jack.

"I don't like what's going on in the Monarchy." Jack said, unsure why he actually came. He got mad and threw a tantrum. Now he didn't what the hell he was thinking.

Lord Bryce leaned towards Jack, like he was about to tell him a secret.

"I don't like what's going on in the Monarchy, as well. That's why I want my throne back." He proclaimed and smiled like a wicked cat. It was the smile, Jack realised. That was the creepy thing about Augustin Bryce, his smile.

Jack was quiet. He had a lot to share but he had to choose the right moment to do so. He was well aware that one wrong word might kill him.

"You seem tense, my old friend." Lord Bryce said, still smiling. "You tell me right now why you came and the rest of the conversation we'll have tomorrow." Still looking straight at Jack, Lord Bryce's facial expression changed as he roared: "Maid!"