From Slave To Queen (Athena and Michael) novel Chapter 22

Chapter 22

C15

The Diluted, having human blood running through their veins, are able to consume certain foods aside from blood. Most seem to prefer just blood, but they aren’t biologically restricted. That’s not the case for the Pure, who suffer major intoxications if they consume any food they’d label as “human“; they are restricted to a completely liquid diet.

“Very considerate of you, Cassian.” I note a certain emphasis on the name. “This is perfect, no need to call anyone in.”

Satisfied, Cassian brings the goblet to his lips and takes a sip that leaves a small crimson stain on his mouth. The color of his eyes is faintly altered by an intense gleam.

“And to what do I owe this visit?” He folds his fingers in front of him. “You risked traveling during the day, knowing what that can do to you.”

“You know perfectly well why I’m here.” Eleazar’s voice sounds rigid; his whole posture is the same. He’s not comfortable here, clearly feels threatened. “You Pure ones keep overstepping with my kind, the Diluted. We’re tired of your propagations. Many have found themselves banned from the Red Auctions, and many others have seen attempts to ruin them there.”

“What makes you think I have anything to do with it?”

Eleazar’s fist slams against the table, making my cutlery jump. I quickly grab it and pretend to cut my food. Yep, my food is super interesting.

Don’t act like you don’t know anything. Everyone follows you. What you command, happens. It’s always been that way with the Draven family.”

“You forget that I never imposed myself as a leader. They do whatever they want. I haven’t asked to be respected.” He arches a brow. “Though they’re right to do so. Even so, I haven’t dictated that you be treated this way.”

“One word from you could change it.”

“What happens to the Diluted is not my problem.”

“We’re the same race, we come from Mother Lilith–how can you treat us this way?”

A laugh rumbles from Cassian’s chest.

“There may be a drop of the Mother in your blood, but we are not the same. You know that. You’ve always known that.” He places a hand over his heart. “Believe me, I have nothing against you. Well, I didn’t until you became a real nuisance. I’m tired of you always coming here asking for the same thing, of your little rebels‘ attacks and that stupid trend you’re spreading… feeding on animal blood? You tarnish the species even more with your nonsense.”

“Some don’t feel comfortable doing that to humans…” Eleazar murmurs.

“Oh, of course, because you feel empathy toward them. Your human blood squirms in your veins every time you feed on one, doesn’t it?”

Silence falls. It seems Cassian has hit the mark. I clear my throat, unable to contain my curiosity any longer. Both of them turn their gazes toward

1. me.

“What is it that the Diluted are asking for?”

Eleazar’s eyes widen in surprise, revealing the gold of his irises that, unlike Cassian’s, are warm. He has scars scattered across his face without diminishing his attractiveness. His lips are full and tightly pressed, his cheekbones so high and sharp they seem sculpted from marble. He’s beautiful, rough, and rugged.

“We want him“-he points at Cassian-“and his ilk to sign a treaty granting us the rights we clearly deserve.”

“I already told you that doesn’t depend on me.” Cassian shrugs. “That my power frighten others? Yes, that’s true. But that doesn’t mean I’m a leader, much less that I want to play politics.”

“Your parents were politicians,” Eleazar snaps. “They brought peace.”

“First of all, don’t talk about my parents with your damn mouth.” Cassian’s voice rises with each word, radiating anger. “And second, I’m not them. I dedicate myself to enjoying life and the privileges it has given me. They were sufferers, looking out for the other species and for you. Clearly, they spoiled you too much, and now you won’t stop whining over a few dirty looks.”

He takes another sip from his goblet, as if the descent of blood down his throat might ease his rage. I shift uneasily in my seat, taking bite after bite of food, wishing I could flee. If there’s anything worse than an angry vampire, it’s two angry vampires eager to fight.

“It’s not just a few dirty looks,” Eleazar counters. “It’s constant contempt, massacres, food withheld.” His eyes narrow and one corner of his mouth lifts in an arrogant gesture. “But remember, we are many more and we’re gathering. More and more are daring to cross the Twisted Forest to find us. You’ll run out of Diluted to use like they’re nothing, and one day they’ll come to your doors demanding answers.”

“Oh yeah?” Cassian responds with equal arrogance. “And what will you do? Kill us? You don’t have the means.”

“It’s only a matter of time before we find a way.”

1/2

12:19 PM

Chapter 22

My jaw practically hits the floor. Honestly, if I had to choose, I’d definitely board the Diluted’s ship, but I think threatening the one hosting you at his table is a bit reckless. Nervous, I squirm in my seat, wanting to leave. Cassian must sense my racing heart and turns his face to me.

“Elara, are you done with your dinner?” He looks at my plate. “If so, you may return to your quarters.”

I don’t even hesitate. I drag my chair back and head for the door. I give a slight nod in farewell and the moment the grand hall doors close behind me, I bolt up the stairs. I hurry through the corridors until I reach my room. Once inside, I enjoy the silence–until it’s broken. Loud noises echo, growls like those of an animal, and things breaking. I flinch in place and slowly move away from the doors.

I don’t know how long the fight noises last. The next thing I know, I see a horse–drawn carriage speeding away from the balcony. The darkness of night doesn’t let me see much more.

Then, someone knocks at the door. And although I could think it’s Naida and Clarissa coming to check if I’m okay, something tells me it’s not them.

I open, feeling quite hesitant, trying to suppress the tremor in my hand before the door swings fully open and I find myself face to face with Cassian.

In front of me, tall and imposing, stands Cassian, looking slightly disheveled. The only signs of the argument–or whatever happened down there— are the light wrinkles in his shirt and a small bloodstain on his cheek. Other than that, he doesn’t look like he just fought another vampire.

“What’s going on?” I manage to control the stutter in my voice.

There’s a disturbing glint in his eyes.

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