Whispers in the Dark

Elara hadn't meant to eavesdrop. Really, she hadn't. But her recent shadow-walking lessons had made her footsteps unnaturally quiet, and the voices drifting from the library had caught her attention before she could announce her presence.

"The portrait incident proves what we've been saying all along," Lady Amarantha's voice sliced through the darkness like a blade. "A human queen? The very magic of Nocturn rebels against it."

Elara pressed herself against the cold stone wall, grateful for the midnight blue velvet of her dress that helped her blend into the shadows. The library doors were slightly ajar, offering a narrow view of the scene within.

"The old families won't stand for this much longer," another voice added – Lord Edward, she realized with a start. "Already, there's talk of invoking the Ancient Rights of Succession."

'The what now?' Elara thought, fighting the urge to groan. 'Another ancient vampire law no one bothered to mention?'