Two Years Later...

Third Person's POV

Ethan's arms encircled Nyx's waist and he held her close as she settled into his lap.

The warm water lapped gently, and the steam curled lazily in the air, wrapping the chamber in a hazy intimate glow.

As their heartbeats slowed, Nyx's fingers drifted to the scar along Ethan's waist.

It was now a faint pink line that would soon fade completely.

It was a mark left by his duel with the ominous shadow and a reminder of the battle he had endured.

Her touch was soft and caring as she traced her finger along its length.

She soon murmured in a low and thoughtful voice.

"Scarlet Hollow Castle will be your base for adapting to the vampire clan's habits.

You will learn to mimic their bloodline aura and blend in seamlessly.

But you won't stay here for the full two years. You will rotate monthly between here and our home in the Dark Forest. No arguments."