Avery is heart was racing , as she followed Julian through the winding corridors of Blackwood Manor . The grand estate seemed to stretch on forever, its opulent decorations and lavish furnishings, a demonstration of Julian is vast wealth and power .
As they walked, Avery could not help but feel like a prisoner trapped in a cage . Julian is words still echoed in her mind . "You are mine now . " You will stand by my side , and support me in everything .
Avery is thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps approaching . A lass , a tall imposing figure emerged from the shadows , his piercing green eyes fixed intently on her .
" Welcome , my lady , " he said , his voice low and smooth ." I am Ryker , Julian is most trusted advisor."
But amidst everything , she could not shake off the feeling that she was being watched . She caught glimpses or Lyra , who seemed to be hiding in the shadows . Her eyes fixed on her .
As the clock struck midnight , Julian led Avery to the edge of the dance floor . " I have a surprise for you ," he whispered . His breath sending shivers down her spine .
Suddenly the music stopped and the room fell silent . Julian raised his hands and the crowd parted , revealing a figure standing at the far end of the room .
It was Ryker whose eyes gleamed with an otherworldly glow . " Ladies and gentlemen," he announced , his voice filled with drama . " The time has come to unveil the true nature of our gathering tonight ."
Avery is heart pounded in her chest as Ryker is words hung in the air , promising secrets and revelations . What lay ahead and what did Ryker is announcement mean ?
Avery felt a shiver run down her spine as Ryker is eyes seemed to bore into her soul . There was something about him that seemed off , something that made her feel uneasy .
Julian is hand closed around hers , his grip tight like a vice . " Ryker , I believe it is time for Avery to learn more about her new role . "
Ryker is smile was cold and menacing "Of course, my lord . I will ensure that she is educated."
Avery felt a surge of fear as Ryker is words seemed to take on a sinister tone . What did he mean by "educated "? And what lay ahead for her in this dark , world ?
As they approached a large , ornate door , Julian is grip on Avery is hand tightened. "We are here , " he said , his voice low and commanding.
Avery is heart racing , she followed Julian and Ryker into a grand , dimly lit chamber filled with rows of ancient, leather -bound books , and Avery sensed that this was Julian is inner sanctum.
"What is this place ?" Avery asked , her voice a whisper .
Julian is smile was cold and calculating . " This is where you will learn the secrets of our world, Avery . This is where you will become the queen you were meant to be .
Avery felt a shiver run down her spine as Julian is words seemed to take on a more ominous tone . What secrets lay hidden in the ancient tomes that surrounded her . And what lay ahead for her in this dark world?
As she looked around the room , Avery noticed a mysterious hooded figure hiding in the shadows . The figure seemed to be watching her , its eyes glaring with an otherworldly intensity.
" Who is that ? " Avery asked , her voice so low .
Julian is smile was enigmatic." That my dear , is a surprise for later ."
Avery felt fear as Julian is words seemed to settle in her mind . What secrets was he hiding? And what lay ahead for her in this dark , foreboding world?
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