Page 83 of Radiant Shadows

“Then why?”

I was running out of time.

“I’ve been forced to leave the Dome for reasons beyond my control,” I admitted. “I’m sure you’ll hear the rumors soon enough. General Dracul has decided that changes need to be made, and that is why I asked for you to come here to speak with me before I leave.”

She stepped back from me and looked up, her eyes shimmering with tears.

“Do not trust Arthur Dracul,” I whispered. “He seeks to weaponize you. He doesn’t see you as a person. He wants to use you against the vampires, even if it means it ends in your death.”

“He’s already spoken to me,” she said with a nod. “He wants to personally train me every day from now on.”

My heart thudded for her obvious angst over the matter.

I sighed. “I’m sure you will learn much. But don’t let him own you, and above all, don’t let him break you. You are so much stronger than he will ever give you credit for. Don’t be afraid to wield that power over him if you need to.”

She nodded, then looked up at me with tired, worried eyes. “I don’t know if I can do any of this, Caesar. I’m not ready to be a soldier, much less a weapon.”

I placed my hand on her shoulder. “I know. Those of us who are called to greatness are never ready for it, and that’s how I know you’re the most worthy person for the job. I have always believed in you. And I will always be ready to fight by your side.”

Her bottom lip trembled, and she sucked it between her teeth.

There was a knock at the door, and Igneaus reentered, along with the other soldiers. “Time’s up, Caesar.”

I turned hastily back to Arya. “If you ever need me for any reason, my personal contact is in your tablet.”

“Now, Caesar,” Igneous barked.

“But if all else fails, call Shea,” I added in a rush.

“Shea?” she asked as the imposing phoenix marched toward her.

“I’ll explain later—”

Igneaus grabbed Arya’s upper arm and attempted to drag her out of the room.

“Let go of me!” she snapped, jerking her arm to no avail.

“Stay strong!” I called after her as Igneaus forcefully tugged her through the doorway.

My door closed with resounding finality. I hated leaving her like this. She was our greatest hope for peace in our world, and if Arthur had his way, he’d destroy her before she ever got the chance.

But what choice did I have? My cards had been dealt, and my only option was to play the hand I’d been given.

Chapter 31

Ashlyn

What started out as a day of empowerment had quickly become an evening of chaos and mayhem. With the millions of rumors floating around the Dome, it was more difficult than usual to regulate my emotions.

“I heard Arya demanded to be the director of the school.”

“Someone told me they're shutting down the Dome, and everyone has to go home.”

“Caesar went full gryphon on Lord Dracul and was sent to military prison.”

None of the stories made sense, and I knew most of it was total bullshit. But still, I needed answers. I had a bad feeling in the pit of my stomach, and everyone’s idiotic ravings only made it worse.

The school was overrun with military soldiers, and I decided to find my father. If anyone would be able to tell me the truth about what was going on, it would be him.

---