The Blood That Bounds Us

Clarice Nymeria

"When destiny brings you purpose, you don't get to walk away. You were meant for this, born for this. This is why Queen Amate gave her life - so you could live and fulfill yours. You cannot turn back now... the universe won't let you," Adja said firmly.

I sat there, blood-soaked and tired, the stench of death still fresh around me. The pests I'd just killed lay scattered, twitching in their last moments. Adja's voice grated against the ringing in my ears.

I knew what she was doing - trying to anchor me with guilt, trap me in the weight of a queen's sacrifice.

But not this time.

She's wrong.
I will do what needs to be done - not what she wants me to do.

---

Devlan Lucifer Knight

"You are the Demon King, Devlan. One of the most powerful beings ever to walk the realms. People fear you - for what you are, and what you might become. This is not the time to disappear. Your people need you," my mother said, her voice clipped with authority.

"Whatever's going on with you, fix it. Clean yourself up - you reek of blood and rotting corpses."

She turned on her heel and walked out like she always does - cold, composed, unreachable. I didn't expect anything more from her.

But she doesn't understand. Not this time.

There's more happening than she knows. And I will do what must be done - not what she commands of me.