Chapter 84

Seris’s POV

She strode away from me and began climbing the steps without looking back. “I will tell you when the time is right,” she called over her shoulder, “but for now, we have special guests.”

At that moment, three figures materialized in the dim corridor, their presence making Queen Valeria’s lips curl into a triumphant smirk. The tallest of the trio advanced to stand proudly in the center, carrying himself with an imperious air that left no doubt in my mind: this was Count Varkhan Noctem, the vampire king. Flanking him were two lesser vampires, moving aside to reveal my daughter Nessa pinned between them. In one arm she clutched her beloved Moonbun, her small form trembling under their grip.

“Nessa!” I screamed, my voice cracking with fear as I saw my child held hostage. “What are you doing with her? Please—don’t involve her! She’s just a child!” I snarled at Valeria, who watched my distress with cold amusement.

“Mummy!” Nessa cried out at the s