Page 96 of The Call of Crimson
When two become one
The flames will drown in salt
The crimson prince and the queen of shadows will fall
When the darkness comes
The royal line will know her fury
And the world will feel the sorrow of shadows”
“The crimson prince and the queen of shadows will fall,” Aurelius murmurs.
My stomach churns at the familiarity of those words. “That’s the warning note that was left pinned to Julian’s body.”
“You’re sure it was those exact words?” Ayden asks, his voice tightening.
The image of Julian’s decaying body nailed to a cross was seared into my mind, etched there permanently, waiting for me behind every blink, every breath. “I’m sure.”
Ayden remains quiet, but the look he gives me—sharp, calculating, deeply concerned—says more than words.
Later, when the others have long since left the library, Ayden grips my shoulders, leaning down so close I can feel the weight of his stare.
“Love, it’s time for you and me to have a talk.”
“I’m exhausted from talking, Ayden,” I sigh, closing my book and pushing it away. My limbs feel heavy, my heart heavier.
“That’s fine,” he says, shoving an apple into my hands. “Eat and I’ll talk while you listen.”
Too tired to argue, I take a bite. The sweet, tart juice floods my mouth, and I nearly groan aloud at how good it tastes after hours of sitting still.
“Your second Gift is weak,” Ayden blurts out.
I freeze, still mid-bite, leveling a glare at him over the apple.
“I don’t—” I start, but he snorts, cutting me off.
“You can’t deny it, darling. I assume it’s not common knowledge, if your reaction is anything to go off.”
My jaw tightens. “And what do you think this supposed second Gift is?”
“I caught your projection the day you ransacked my rooms for evidence.” He leans back casually, like we’re discussing the weather.
I try to play it off, taking another slow bite. “I don’t know what you mean, Prince. I was in that room the entire time.”
“No, you weren’t.” Ayden levels me with a serious look, daring me to challenge him. “Not really. One moment you were sitting at a table, then you were on the floor.”
I sigh, knowing I’ve been caught. “What do you want, Ayden?”
“Answers.”
“Fine.” I set the apple down. “Outside of this room, only Elijah and Jade know about my Vizie Gift. I can astral project.”
His eyes narrow slightly, thoughtful. “You’re so talented with shadows. Why haven’t you mastered this?”
“Insensitive, much?”
“You’re not a sensitive female, love. Stop pretending my words hurt you.”
