Chapter 16: Divine Protection

Lucien sat on the bed of his hotel room, his body throbbing with pain from the bruises inflicted during the encounter with the vampire guards. Every movement sent sharp jolts of pain through his limbs. He shifted his focus to tending to his injuries, knowing that he needed to regain his strength for the arduous task ahead.

Examining his wounds with a careful eye, Lucien assessed the extent of the damage. He'd been cut without really realizing it until later. He winced as he cleansed the cuts and gashes with an antiseptic solution, gritting his teeth against the stinging sensation. Applying fresh bandages, he bound the wounds tightly, ensuring they were protected and secure. Though far from healed, the makeshift dressings provided some relief.