Does my daughter owe you an explanation? Are you resentful towards the royal family? Do you think you can take it out on her now? Why didnt you unleash this rage before, to fight against the King who treated you like scum?! She roared, her vampire canines bared.
Even in her current state, having lost her power, it was incredible how her aura could still crush a persons heart.
Nota single sound could be heard in the square.
You want to know what the hell I was doing? This is what I was doing! she suddenly ripped off the bandage covering her eyes, exposing her horrible scars and blind eyes to everyone.
My breath caught in my chest, and I wanted to step forward to stop her I didnt want her to expose herself like this just to defend me.
She must be suffering terribly from the sudden light.
"No, Valeria, watch and learn, my love.
This is how a Queen should look.
You still have a lot to learn," Aldric took my hand, stopping me and pulling me to his side.
My red eyes watched her with concern.
Acollective gasp rose from the crowd, and some turned away, covering their mouths to hide their shock.
This is the price of guarding the Specter Kings prison! Its time you all learn what the Selenias do.
No more sacrifices for ungrateful people like you! she roared, clenching her fists, trembling with fury.
---- T left behind my daughter, who matters far more to me than your miserable lives.
Look at her face, covered in scars! Do you think her life has been easy? Growing up without a mother, being betrayed by the Vampire Kingthat man deceived us all! So dont you dare judge my Valeria! Everyone lowered their heads, no one daring to meet her gaze.
I was sure there were no longer any doubts about my lineage.
Anyone with complaints can blame me entirely, and I can assure you, I couldnt give a damn about your grievances! My chest swelled with warmth and pride.
The Von Carstein family will reclaim the throne! Valeria will be Queen, and you can either accept it willingly or by force! Believe me, we can be far worse than King Kael! Now get the hell back to your damn homes, and the next person who speaks ill of my daughter will be executed! Naturally, they all scattered, nearly running away.
Ismirked sarcasticallysometimes, I truly didnt understand people.
I still had much to learn, that was certain.
Mom! I lunged toward her when I saw her sway and almost fall, clutching her face.
Before I could reach her, Quinn was already there, scooping her into his arms and shielding her against his chest.
Put the bandage back on, quickly.
Her eyes must hurt a lot, he urged.
I took the dark cloth from her trembling hand and carefully placed it over her half-hidden eyes against her mates shirt.
Mom, Im sorry.
You shouldnt have done that, you didnt have to...
Tears rolled down my cheeks uncontrollably.
I knew she was holding back to keep me from worrying, but she was in agony.
Seeing her gray eyes, nearly white, made my soul ache unbearably.
Vale, dont cry, dont cry, my little one, she weakly squeezed my hand resting on her lap.
It was just a scolding for those ingrates, dont worry, Im fine.
You should be resting, theres too much light still.
Come on, lets go back...
Tl take her to rest, dont worry.
Take care of things here.
I think that woman is waiting for you, Quinn answered for her.
He held my mother possessively, but instead of feeling jealous, I was relieved that she had his unconditional love.
Yes, yes, sweetheart, stay here, Vale.
Im fine.
Isighed, relenting, and kissed her cheek gently.
She smiled softly.
It was incredibleI'd never had her by my side, she should have been a stranger to me.
Yet, I didnt know if it was the bond of blood, but nowI felt that if I lost her again, it would be unbearable.
Amother who speaks for me, defends me, and gives me her love without reservations or conditionsthat's something priceless in this life.
I watched as Quinn carried her back home.
It seemed they had gone out for a walk earlier.
Tm sorry for such a hostile welcome, the White Sorceress said beside me, her face full of shame.
Tts fine.
I suppose they just need time to adjust, I replied impassively.
All the while, the protective presence of my man lingered behind me ---- my greatest pillar, the fierce and loyal wolf.
Your Majesty, a timid voice called from below the stage.
It was the mother of the sick child.
I descended to speak with her in the half-empty square.
Thank you so much, Princess Valeria.
I will be grateful until my last breath.
I support you, Your Highness...