Chapter 70

In the world of vampires, noble titles were a privilege reserved exclusively for pure-blood families. Historically, there were five noble, pure-blood vampire families, but the annihilation of the Vexleys had reduced their number to four. A family could retain its noble title as long as at least one pure-blooded member remained alive. For the Thornes, this legacy rested on the shoulders of three surviving members: King Alaric, Princess Selene—both pure-bloods—and Prince Varen, a half-blood who bore more human traits than vampire ones.

After the assassination of the former Lord Protector and Lady Protector, the once-prominent Kessler family was left with just two members: Hadrian and his sister, Penrose. Meanwhile, the other noble families, the Patels and the Ashcrofts, harbored varying ambitions for the throne.

The Patel family, hailing from India, once revered as gods, now focused on global business ventures. With wealth that defied imagination, they had no interest in political power. Their loyalty to King Alaric, pledged centuries ago to safeguard their enterprises, had earned them the title of Count. Old Count Patel had no aspirations for greater influence, but his younger sons might not share his contentment.

The Ashcrofts, in contrast, often opposed King Alaric and were suspected of aligning with the Vexleys too frequently. This history naturally cast suspicion on them following the recent attacks. However, their current power was a shadow of its former self. Lord Protector Eryx Ashcroft lacked the resources to pose a serious threat, while Lady Protector Ashcroft’s reckless spending and her sons’ foolishness had all but drained their wealth. Even if they wished to challenge the Kesslers, they lacked the means to do so alone.

Beyond the noble families, mixed-blood vampires, ambitious yet lacking titles, were also potential suspects in the recent turmoil. Figures like Braddock Zephyr, a judge with ties to the Vexleys, exemplified their cunning and hunger for power.

"My family was once pure-blood, too," Gareth admitted bitterly. "The Larkspurs held the Viscount title until my grandfather ruined everything by having a child with a mixed-blood. That’s why my father never inherited the title."

His admission surprised me, but I was grateful for his honesty. It explained much about his disdain for humans and his resentment toward his grandfather, whose love had cost their family its purity. Perhaps Gareth had never been in love; otherwise, he might understand how the heart often defies logic. It also clarified his unease about my bond with the Lord Protector—an idolized figure Gareth feared could jeopardize his own future.

"So, Prince Varen can’t become King, even if he’s the strongest vampire?" I asked, my tone laced with cynicism.

"Not likely. Strength isn’t enough for a mixed-blood to claim the throne," Gareth replied.

"But you’re incredibly strong. Couldn’t you fight for your title?" I ventured cautiously.

A flicker of pride crossed Gareth’s face before he masked it with a stern cough. "I could challenge a pure-blood noble and take their title if I won. It’s a sacred rule. But no mixed-blood has ever defeated a pure-blood. Besides, my loyalty lies with the Kesslers. I can’t risk upsetting the political balance, especially now that my Master is poised to ascend the throne."

Bitterness tinged his words. Gareth’s pride and loyalty waged a silent war, but his devotion always emerged victorious. For the House of Kessler, he would willingly forgo his dreams.

"And the werewolves?" I asked, shifting the topic.

Gareth chuckled darkly. "I was beginning to think you didn’t care about that part anymore."

"I’d just like to know if killing my father would be considered illegal," I said with a smirk.

"You wouldn’t stand a chance against him, blood bag," Gareth retorted.

"Who said I’d fight fair? I’d shoot him with aconite," I replied confidently.

Gareth’s grin was wicked. "I must admit, I like that idea."

For a moment, we shared a rare camaraderie, but it didn’t last. Gareth quickly reverted to his serious demeanor. "As for the wolves, there was a war between vampires and werewolves in the late nineteenth century. Both sides suffered heavy losses, and neither emerged victorious. The conflict ended with a truce brokered by King Alaric and the werewolves’ leader, King Alpha Tiberius Lockridge. According to the truce, killing members of the other species is punishable unless it occurs under specific circumstances, such as crossing territorial boundaries."

I finally understood why Hadrian had eliminated all witnesses during my rescue. Without testimony, the northern pack wolves had no concrete proof of his involvement. Even with forensics, accusing a future vampire king based on circumstantial evidence was an uphill battle.

"So, what’s this gathering the Lord Protector mentioned?" I asked, wary of what awaited me.

Gareth’s expression darkened. "It’s an emergency meeting for noble families. Pure-blood members attend by default, while mixed-bloods require prior approval. Humans? They’ve never been invited."

"Then why did the Lord Protector say I’d be joining him?" I asked, dread creeping into my voice.

"Because he can force them to accept it," Gareth growled. "He’s likely using your presence to provoke his enemies and unmask those responsible for the attacks."

If Hadrian intended to provoke, he was succeeding—I was already furious. The thought of walking into another potential danger was the last thing I wanted. For once, Gareth and I shared a common disdain for Hadrian’s plan.

Imagining the chaos my presence might ignite at the gathering, only one word escaped my lips:

"Shit."