# Chapter 75 – The Council's Trap
*Vanessa's POV*
I knew it was a trap the moment I stepped into the old cathedral.
The message had been clear. "Come alone if you want answers about your bloodline." It was signed with the mark of the Shadow Council. The same mark that had haunted my nightmares for years.
But I had to know. I had to understand why my family died. Why I was the only one left.
The cathedral was dark inside. Candles flickered along the walls, casting dancing shadows everywhere. The air smelled old and musty. Like death.
"Welcome, last daughter of the Blackthorne line."
The voice came from everywhere and nowhere. I spun around, but saw nothing.
"Show yourselves," I called out. My voice echoed in the empty space.
Laughter filled the air. Cold laughter that made my skin crawl.
"As you wish."
They appeared from the shadows like smoke taking shape. Five figures in dark robes. Their faces were hidden, but I could feel their eyes on me. Watching. Judging.
