King Esmond returned from a long, arduous meeting with Rienna Blanie, the newly appointed head of the witches, and sank heavily onto the broad chaise in their chamber. Margaret, his wife, immediately noticed the deep frowns etched on his forehead, understanding that something was seriously amiss.
"Didn't it go well, dear?" Margaret inquired, her voice laced with concern as she approached him.
Esmond sighed deeply, rubbing his temples. "Rienna is practically reveling in her newfound power. She claimed that the vampires have always been oppressive toward the witches. I fear we're on the brink of another war between us and the witches. Such a conflict would destabilize the kingdom and lead to countless deaths," he confided.
Margaret's eyes widened with worry. "Damien brought so much destruction with him. We almost lost our son because of it. Did you remind Rienna of this?" she asked in a trembling voice.
