Chapter 25
~ The Vampire Realm ~
** Erin's POV **
The celebration was finally over.
And honestly? I was grateful.
Grateful that everything went smoothly, grateful for my creations—the Goldren's—and grateful for the peace that filled the night air after the music faded.
They had really done their best. The lights, the dancers, the music, the colors—it was beyond anything I expected. There was warmth, joy, and unity in that moment. For a while, I forgot all my worries and just smiled as they cheered, calling me their queen.
When the last of the lanterns faded into the dim horizon, Theodore—also known as Black Lightning—approached me. His expression was calm, but I could see the sharp intelligence in his eyes. He was always composed, the kind of warrior who could command an army with a single glance.
"My queen," he said in that deep voice of his, bowing slightly. "There are many things we need to discuss. But you should rest for now. We'll continue tomorrow."
Then he turned toward Ruby and added, "Take the Queen to her chambers."
My chambers.
That sounded so… royal.
I didn't even know I had one here.
"Whoa, chambers?" I said, trying not to sound too excited but failing miserably. "That's cool. I have a chamber here? Nice."
Ruby chuckled softly as we began walking. "Of course you do. You built this place, remember? Everything here is because of you, Erin."
I didn't remember, obviously. But I smiled anyway.
Because hearing it still felt good.
As we walked down the long glowing hallway, I realized how breathtaking everything around me was. The walls shimmered faintly like gold veins running through crystal stone. Flowers bloomed along the path, their petals glowing in soft colors—pinks, blues, even silvers that shimmered with moonlight. Tiny glowing butterflies drifted lazily in the air, adding that perfect magical touch.
When we entered the chamber, I literally froze.
It was beyond beautiful.
Like… I don't even know how to describe it.
The air smelled of roses and sunlight. The walls were covered with vines that bloomed endlessly with silver flowers. A soft breeze brushed my skin even though there were no windows open. And the bed—oh my goodness, the bed—was huge, covered with golden sheets and soft cloud-like pillows.
"This is paradise," I whispered.
Ruby smiled, clearly proud. "You said this was where you wanted to rest whenever you were tired of ruling realms. You called it your 'peace chamber.'"
I sat on the bed—it was so soft that I sank into it like it was hugging me. My whole body instantly relaxed. My eyes grew heavier with every breath until sleep finally pulled me under.
---
When I woke up the next morning, the sunlight spilling into the room felt warm and welcoming. Ruby was already waiting for me with that cheerful smile she always wore.
"Good morning, my Queen! Did you sleep well?"
I stretched and yawned. "Honestly? I think I slept better than I have in weeks."
She giggled. "That's what the chamber does. It's infused with your magic—it restores your energy when you rest here."
Interesting.
I didn't remember creating something like that, but it did explain why I felt more refreshed than ever.
After breakfast (which Ruby somehow had ready the moment I opened my eyes), she suggested we go to the lake.
"You should bathe in the lake, Erin," she said. "It's not just for strength—it'll also help awaken your sealed powers, and maybe even your memories."
That part caught my attention.
I wanted my memories back.
Not just flashes, but everything.
So I agreed.
When we reached the lake, it was even more beautiful than I remembered from yesterday. The water shimmered like liquid crystal, reflecting every shade of gold and red from the morning sky. The moment I touched it, a soft pulse ran through me—like the water recognized me.
I stepped in, the water warm and smooth against my skin.
Ruby sat by the edge, smiling. "That's it, Erin. The lake holds your power—it'll remember you, and soon, you'll remember it too."
I dipped my head under the surface, letting the energy flow through me. I could feel it—the soft hum of power, the whispers of old magic echoing faintly in my head. For a moment, I saw something… blurry. A flash of light. A battlefield. My own voice calling out a name—Theo—and then darkness again.
When I came back up, I gasped softly. My heart raced.
Ruby looked worried. "You okay?"
"Yeah… yeah, I'm fine. I just saw something—probably a memory fragment."
She smiled softly. "That's good. The lake is working."
We stayed there for a while, talking. She told me stories about how the Goldren's have been living since I disappeared. How Theo had been the one keeping the realm in order, making sure peace remained even when threats came from outside.
Apparently, a few other realms weren't happy I had returned.
Especially the witches.
"They've been restless lately," Ruby said, frowning. "Ever since the first sign of your return appeared, the witch realm has been preparing for something. They fear you, Erin. They know what your power can do."
I sighed. "I haven't even done anything yet, and I already have enemies. Perfect."
She chuckled nervously. "It's not just them. Some from the elven realm too. They believe your rebirth will tip the balance of the realms."
I didn't even know what to say to that.
I just wanted to get stronger.
To make Clara pay for what she did.
To make Levi regret his choices.
That was all.
That was supposed to be the goal.
But now it seemed… bigger. Way bigger.
It wasn't just about heartbreak anymore. It was about power, destiny, and maybe something older than I could imagine.
Ruby must've sensed my thoughts because she stood and placed a hand on my shoulder.
"Don't worry, Erin. You're not alone. You have us, you have the Goldren's, and you have Theo. We'll protect you until the end."
I smiled faintly. "Thank you, Ruby. I'm really glad you're here."
She blushed, her golden eyes shining. "Always, my Queen."
We stayed by the lake until the sun was fully up, and then started heading back. I could already sense that Theo would be waiting, ready to bombard me with more responsibilities, plans, and whatever else came with being "Queen of the Goldren's."
Honestly, I wasn't sure if I was ready to rule anything.
But maybe… maybe this was where I was meant to be.
Still, deep inside me, there was a pull.
Something telling me that everything—my lost powers, the growing tension between realms, and even my connection to Levi—were all part of something much bigger than I thought.
And whether I was ready or not… it had already begun.