Chapter 48: Then, the beast stirred. Its powerful limbs twitched, and a low growl rumbled from its chest. One paw jerked violently, rippling and twisting. All at once, its fur melted away, revealing pale human skin. Fingers-rugged, strong, and clearly male-twitching where sharp claws had been just moments earlier. The transformation stopped. As quickly as it had started, the shift reversed. The male hand clenched, skin hardening, and nails grew back into long, black talons once again. Aekeira awoke the next morning in an unfamiliar environment, her eyes taking in the luxurious surroundings-the expensive bed and the highly decorated bedchamber. Confusion clouded her mind as she tried to piece together the events of the previous night. Where am I? How did I end up here? And then, the memories came crashing back. Aekeira threw off the blankets and hastily rose from the bed, her wild blonde hair tumbling messily over her face, obstructing her view. With a sense of urgency, she gathered her hair into a bun as she made her way out of the golden chambers and toward the southern wing of the citadel. What happened last night? Is Em alive? Oh, please, let her be alright! As she pushed open the door to the southern wing, a wave of relief washed over her when she saw no sign of the beast. Lαtєst ch????pt????rs in gąlnovels.ċøm But her relief was short-lived as she beheld the sight of Emeriel lying unconscious on the floor. She was naked, marred by bruises and red marks. Tears welled in Aekeira's eyes, her hands flying to cover her mouth as she let out a sob. Her heart shattered in her chest. She had failed Em. She had failed her little sister. "Oh, Light," Aekeira whispered, sinking down beside Em and sobbing sorrowfully. Her fingers moved gently, offering soothing touches to her sister's arm. "I am so sorry, Em. I failed you." The door opened, and Aekeira quickly rose, ready to shield her sister's body with her own if necessary. Madam Livia entered, carrying a bag of herbs. "Is she awake yet?" "No," Aekeira found solace in the rhythmic rise and fall of Emeriel's chest. "I fell asleep, Madam Livia. I do not know how I managed to sleep through the night while Em suffered." "You were put to sleep, Aekeira, so stop blaming yourself," Madam Livia interjected. "Come, help me lift her onto the bed." As they carefully moved Emeriel, Madam Livia continued, "Lord Vladya did not want you to do anything that might put your sister's life in danger, so he made sure you were asleep." My sister? Aekeira's thoughts raced. It suddenly dawned on her that Madam Livia seemed unfazed by the fact that Emeriel was a girl. "You knew?" Madam Livia nodded. "I know." Aekeira watched her closely, waiting for her to say more. Madam Livia finally spared her a glance. "I have known for some days now. You do not see me rushing to report her, so you might want to stop worrying." Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!