Raphael has a gash on his forehead, and his right arm is bleeding from a deep cut, but he looks invincible to me.
“Th-thank you,” I say.
“No, thankyou, lad.”
I notice then that the screams have stopped, and the only noise around us is the crackling of fires that haven’t gone out yet.
“Did you win?”
He glances around, and a deep sorrow seems to overtake his features. “No, not by a long shot. I’m sorry we were too late.”
My chest becomes heavy once more. I think about my parents and Connor. Hot tears pour down my face, but I don’t want Raphael to see me crying, so I dry them quickly and return to the place I hid Connor.
Raphael follows me, and when I pull Connor from the hiding place using my good arm, he drops into a crouch next to me.
“What was his name?”
“Connor. He was my brother.”
“And your parents?”
“They’re gone too.” I drop my chin, trying to hide the tears than won’t stop falling. “I couldn’t save them.”
“There were too many of them, lad. But you fought bravely, and you saved my life. I’ll be eternally grateful for that.”
I glance at him. “Are you a king?”
He nods. “Yes.”
“Can I join your army?”
King Raphael narrows his eyes, studying me with intent. My stomach tightens. Maybe he thinks I’m too small and weak to join his army. But the idea of being left behind makes my throattighten. I can’t stay here. “I’ll be your most loyal subject. I’ll do anythi?—”
He places a hand on my shoulder. “I’d be honored if you joined my army, lad. What’s your name?”
“Ronan. Ronan McLaren.”
“I’m King Raphael Della Morte.”
My eyes round. I’ve heard that name before. “You’re the king of vampires.”
“That’s correct. Come now. We can’t linger here. The enemy forces will regroup.”
I clutch Connor’s body tighter against my chest. “I can’t leave Connor and my parents like this.”
The king’s face softens. “No, of course not. We will give them a proper burial, but I’m afraid we can’t do the same for the rest of your village. I’m sorry.”
I look over his shoulder, taking in the sight of what’s left of the only place I’ve ever known. It’s unrecognizable now.
“I understand.” I get up on shaky legs. “Perhaps the fire will rage on.”
“Perhaps. Where are your parents?”
“They were slain near our home, but…” I glance around, my panic rising. “I’m not sure which direction it is now.”
“We’ll find them.” He squeezes my shoulder, and the fear goes away. “You’re safe now, lad. You have my word.”
Eight
