“Through years of research,” I continue, brushing my fingers along the light-wrought helix, “they proved that magical essence could be isolated and stabilized at a molecular level. My parents discovered something extraordinary. Each magical creature’s essence carries unique properties, but what’s revolutionary was proving these essences could be successfully merged. In our earliest trials, we demonstrated how one creature could safely incorporate another’s abilities through careful essence integration.”
The screams, the mutations, the catastrophic failures, the discarded hybrids . . . all remain exactly where they belong. Out of sight.
“Phoenixes, for example, are embodiments of renewal. When they undergo rebirth, every wound, every fracture, is erased in an instant. We isolated that regenerative signature, stabilized its expression, and began the first cross-species integrations.”
Madeline exhales, a soft noise of awe. “That sounds extraordinarily complex.”
“It is,” I say lightly, transitioning to simpler language, “but at its core, it’s a matter of convergence. Every living being has two blueprints: DNA and magical essence. Magical creatures are uniquein that these systems operate in perfect cohesion—essence flowing without resistance or sacrifice. Our work builds upon that harmony.”
I let my voice drop, laced with wonder. “What we’re most excited about is the potential for human application. If hybridized creatures can host multiple integrated essences, what’s stopping us from evolving past blood sacrifice altogether?”
“So theoretically, this would eliminate the need for blood magic in healing spells?”
“Exactly,” I say, smiling with quiet triumph. “Instead of bleeding for every spell, your body wouldbecomethe conduit, naturally attuned to channel magic without cost or consequence. Self-sustaining healing. Immediate recovery. No pain. No loss.”
“And it’s safe?”
“That’s where the years of research come in,” I say warmly, about to tell my most calculated half-truth yet. “We’ve extensively tested essence integration, starting with inter-creature studies to prove viability.”Truth, technically. Even if most trials ended in incineration or disfigurement.“The results exceeded every projection.”
And by we, I mean my parents. The human trials haven’t begun yet, but they will, as soon as the Lower Ring volunteers are processed.
“We’re already seeing stunning compatibility with early-stage human tissue models,” I finish smoothly. “The future is closer than anyone realizes.”
I catch Alexander’s approving nod from the shadows. The perfect alchemy—scientific enough to sound credible, simple enough to inspire awe, meticulously sculpted to obscure the truth beneath layers of controlled jargon and promises of a brighter future.
“The results have been remarkable,” I add smoothly, delivering the final stroke. “In our trials, injuries that once demanded weeks of intensive blood magic healed near-instantly.” I don’t mention that it’s all still theoretical—projected data mapped from stabilized tissue samples, not living subjects. They can believe we’re further along.Let them cling to hope. By the time the truth surfaces, the outcome will validate the cost.
After all, Alexander taught me that the most persuasive lies are draped in just enough truth to make them irresistible.
“Before we wrap up,” Madeline leans in, her smile tipping into something conspiratorial, “I have to ask about those whispers making the rounds. Your sister Aria, engaged to Dominic Blackwood. Any truth to the rumor?”
“Oh, Madeline,” I giggle, the sound perfectly calibrated despite the acid in my stomach. “You know I couldn’t possibly comment on my sister’s private affairs. That’s her story to tell.”
“And she will!” Madeline turns to the hover orbs with a grin. “Stay tuned, Eclipsera—we’ll be joined by Aria Ellis herself next to share her own exciting news.”
Aria? Here?
I hadn’t seen her in the prep suites. No sign of her in the makeup bay or the guest lounge. My expression holds steady, but inside, something twists. Of course, she would choose today. My breakthrough, my moment, and she still manages to make it about her.
“How wonderful,” I say, voice dripping honey to hide the venom. “Viewers are in for quite a treat.”
“Cut!” the director calls. “Great first segment. Reset for the culinary crossover.”
I rise with controlled grace, accepting a glass of water from a production assistant. The studio lights dim, the crew murmuring around us as hover orbs reposition. Alexander is at my side a heartbeat later.
“Well done,” he murmurs, his presence grounding me even as the ache of betrayal simmers just beneath my skin.
I hesitate, then ask the question that’s been burning since Madeline’s ambush. “Is she really here?”
His expression softens. That rare sliver of tenderness he reserves for moments like this. “Yes. I instructed the staff to keep yourpreparation areas separate. Today was too important to risk any disruptions.”
“Thank you,” I say meaning it. “It was probably for the best. I needed to focus.”
“You were exceptional.” His hand brushes the small of my back. “The Lower Ring intake begins tomorrow. Dr. Vale’s team is fully briefed. Once the results are visible, public opinion will bend to inevitability.” He pauses outside the dressing room door. “I’ll have the car brought around. Take your time.”
I nod, grateful for the space.
Inside, I slip into soft silk blouse and tailored slacks. I’m fastening the final button when I spot movement in the mirror. The door creaks open and a familiar silhouette slips through the gap. Before I can react, Aria steps inside, locking it with a decisive click.
