Heir of Fury and Betrayal

By Sarah El Dhaibi

In a shadowy world full of supernatural creatures, trouble is brewing in the Vampire high society.

 

Josephine Draco's powerful bloodline is one of the few remaining in her society, making her incredibly valuable.

As a political alliance develops between Vampires and Demons, Josephine struggles to hide the curse that haunts her and fights to save her best friend who has been promised to a very dangerous Vampire.

 

While she recruits her closest friends for help, Josephine is lied to, betrayed, and exploited by those she considers her family. Josephine's own mother is secretly seeking to destroy her to form a powerful alliance with Demons, in order to save her family's bloodline from a rebellious war.

 

Josephine is forced to decide: save her family or save herself.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sarah El Dhaibi
• Release date: May 23, 2022
• ISBN: 9780645470505

Book preview

Prologue

Josephine’s mother, Cecilia, glared at her from the other side of the room. She crossed her hands over her knees, in an attempt to stop herself from doing something she would certainly regret later.

 So, your daughter has declined many eligible suitors? How very unfortunate, Mrs. Lockwood addressed Josephine’s mother, a slight smirk plastered on her unusual looking face. Josephine wondered if she should find this matter amusing or irritating.

Josephine did nothing to hide her disgust, rolling her eyes and scowling at them all. It probably explained why the hideous-looking whore sitting across from Josephine avoided her gaze, but she did not care. The emotions that whirled within her itched to tell guest how she really felt, but she carefully refrained from making another scene in front of her mother, as she had with a lower-level Vampire presenting her son, the eligible bachelor. 

 Well, Josephine's mother began saying, sometimes the perfect person takes their time to enter our lives. Josephine just needs some time to settle into herself. The tightness in her mother’s voice nearly cracked every glass in the intimate sitting area they occupied. Her mother had a talent for restraining herself when need be.

Josephine pushed her back against the couch, attempting to hide from her mother’s constant death stares that she shot her way.

 Mrs. Lockwood adjusted herself against the couch, turning her body towards Josephine, her crystal-blue eyes absorbing every inch of her. Josephine watched as the old woman tried to keep her forced smile plastered on her face. Mrs. Lockwood was on edge, and the thought of her squirming underneath Josephine’s stare sent a spark of excitement through her.

 A penny for your thoughts? the old lady asked, smirking as if she knew exactly what Josephine was thinking. 

 Josephine smiled to herself and did not hesitate as she replied confidently, Of course. 

 I do not think it is the most appropriate time… her mother attempted to silence her, but she had learned that no one could quiet down her daughter’s deadly thoughts.

 I find you and that… creature of yours quite unappealing.

 I beg your pardon? The old woman began, completely thrown off. She pinched the edges of her glasses and lowered them down the bridge of her nose. Her lips were set in a grim line, clearly repulsed.

 What is it you want, exactly, that my family has to offer? Josephine questioned. Money? Power? Flicking her long hair over her shoulder, Josephine continued, Just because you marry into a powerful bloodline, like my own, does not make you any more relevant in our society. You must earn your keep even if you are married into it. I guess you had not realized this when you married.

 Josephine indulged in the shock and disappointment on her mother’s face. Josephine loved to rile her mother up every chance she could get, especially at times like these. 

How many times must she go through this? Marriage was not her priority, and she would not be forced into one because she had come of age. She was not an object, nor was she cattle to sell to the highest bidder. Her mother constantly flaunted her status, hoping to find a worthy suitor. She could remember her mother scolding her for not dressing appropriately, for not smiling genuinely, for not speaking appropriately, or acting accordingly. She was sick of it.

 Oh, I see, the old woman huffed out a laugh, It’s no wonder none of the other suitors wanted her. The old lady shifted her face directly to her right, deliberately averting her attention from Josephine. I understand the problem now, she spat out.

 Oh dear, you think I was rejected? Josephine laughed at the woman’s failed attempt at insulting her. You poor thing, bless your soul. You know, for someone like yourself, who certainly knows nothing about who I am, you are quite bold. Josephine relished in the expression on her opponent’s face and pushed further, saying, Can you imagine being treated as a prized object once, then cast aside like nothing when your worth had run out? she asked, licking her lips wickedly. 

Josephine smirked at the thought of the old woman suffering from the pain she endured every day of her life, wanted to know if she could handle it the way that she could.

 I think that is quite enough, her mother firmly announced, silencing whatever Mrs. Lockwood was about to reply. I’m sure that Vladimir and I will consider your offer, Mrs. Lockwood. But for now, I believe you have overstayed your welcome. She aimed her dismissive tone towards her daughter more than at the hideous woman sitting across from her. Josephine quickly averted her eyes as Mrs. Lockwood apologized sweetly before departing. 

 I must say, that went surprisingly well, Josephine said sarcastically, receiving a scowl from her mother in return.

Oh well.

Chapter 1

"As we settle into ourselves, we are challenged and prohibited

from certain things. That is when we rise into adulthood

and become our true self."

The music’s deafening assault overwhelmed her, yet it was precisely what Josephine needed. The club was crowded with sweating bodies swinging recklessly around to the beat. Scantily clad waitresses walked around the dance floor serving cups filled to the brim with a vibrant liquid. The fluid swirling around dramatically in the glass seemed to have a life of its own.

Without a care in the world, Josephine swayed her body to the intoxicating music, forgetting who she was and what awaited her once her joy ended. The beat was pounding loudly and deeply in her bones, liberating her. Her head was clear, and she felt as if she could finally breathe without the incessant hovering of her parents. The Mundanes surrounding her had no idea who was dancing amongst them, and she preferred it that way.

Hungry, dull eyes watched as Josephine whirled around, connecting to the rhythm rushing through her veins. Decorative smoke slithered around her feet. The only lights in the dark and overcrowded club came from the floor, which lit up beneath the dancers, and the colorful lights flashing on and off on the ceiling; it put her into a trance that made her desire more.

As she danced hypnotically to the music, Josephine lifted her head and raised her arms as if she were flying. The ceiling rained scarlet droplets of blood mixed with alcohol that made Josephine crave more as it slipped into her mouth, savoring every drop.

Hours. 

That’s how long the guards had been stationed at the bar on the upper level, scanning the dance floor for any dangers, waiting for the heir of one of the last remaining bloodlines to conclude her evening. She could get rid of them sometimes, but other times, they were like leeches, clinging to her wherever she went. It’s not that she minded, but there was neither peace nor freedom when they were around.

She wanted fun. 

Was that too much to ask?

The dark club provided space to roam and exist without restraint, a haven for the supernatural. There were few places around the world that provided establishments such as this one. To protect themselves from humanity, most of the supernatural beings had to improvise or take matters into their own hands — secret societies, clandestine clubs, and underground raves run by the supernatural gave them the ability to be free while living in concealment. 

A man backed up behind her and she turned around to see his bewildered expression. In that moment, his face was a mask of astonishment as he took in her beauty. Coming back to himself, the man gave her a lazy grin. Josephine returned the smile with a pair of sharp canines slipping numbly from her gums. He blinked slowly, but in a split second they had vanished, disappearing from his sight. 

She chuckled at his perplexed expression and continued dancing as if nothing had happened. He grabbed her waist and pulled her back onto him. With Josephine’s back to the Mundane, he confidently roamed her body with his large, trembling hands. They were sloppy, but she didn’t mind. For once, she was not afraid; she let him explore, her head falling back to expose her neck to him.

As she danced, grinding her hips into him, she turned around to see him sweating and panting. She gripped the back of his neck, bringing the Mundane's face down closer to hers, breathing him all in. As she grazed her lips against his wet ones, careful not to kiss him, she tilted his head back slightly and bit into his neck without a second thought. His blood tasted sweet from all the drugs that coursed through his system and she craved it all. There was so much she wanted, but right now, this was satisfying enough. He didn’t flinch away from her, instead he brought her small body closer to his own, the grip on her hips tightening with every second she kept her hold on him. As she pulled away from the male, he stared down at her with lust in his eyes. But a moment later, the Mundane was being hauled away by the guard who was posted at the edge of the dance floor. 

She laughed at his confused expression and continued to dance carelessly, ignoring the disapproving looks directed at her by the guards.

Josephine danced a little while longer before she felt somebody tap her on the shoulder, motioning to her that it was time to go. She tried to ignore the guard standing behind her, but he refused to budge, his brooding dark brown eyes looking down at her. After finally surrendering, Josephine allowed the guard to escort her out of the dark club and to the waiting vehicle.

Tonight was fun, she announced during the car ride home to the four guards that escorted Josephine on her little adventure. They all seemed displeased with her. 

Oh well. 

We should do this tomorrow night. Or every night for the rest of my life. A deep sigh came from the driver's seat, and she chuckled to herself, knowing how much they must hate her at this very moment.

The long ride home had Josephine thinking of the scolding she was about to receive. She leaned her head on the black leather headrest, staring calmly outside the window, watching the beautiful night sky glisten through the tall trees and their thick branches. 

A headache throbbed behind her eyes. She tried her best to ignore it and inhaled deeply to relax her body.

The long-deserted road was surrounded by the thick forest into which no one dared venture. The forest seemed to come alive at night, welcoming her like an old friend. It hid the supernatural world from the Mundane world. It was home to many supernatural species, like the Fae and Werewolves, who lived all around the world. Unlike Vampires, who lived among their food, other supernatural species hid from their natural sworn enemies, distancing themselves from conflicts.

Josephine was lost in her own thoughts when the car finally stopped in front of large metal gates. The guard rolled down his window when a female voice from the monitor stated, Password.

The guard driving the vehicle opened his mouth to reply when Josephine sang loudly from the backseat, THE DEVIL’S SPAWN HAS ARRIVED!

The voice within the monitor was quiet for a moment and Josephine could sense the eye roll coming from the other end. The female voice restated, Password.

The guard turned around and motioned for Josephine to be quiet. "In Sanguine Sacro," he spoke in Latin.

The gates opened when Josephine whistled in astonishment. "The Bloodline is Sacred? Who comes up with these passwords?" 

Once the large metal gates opened, the vehicle began its descent down the long driveway and up to the mansion her family occupied. It was unlike the castles they used to live in, but large enough to accommodate her father’s entire court and then some. When the car made its way around the fountain and came to a stop in front of the entrance, Josephine made no move to get out of the car, but she knew she’d have to, eventually.

Sighing in defeat, Josephine got out and headed straight for the mansion, her headache pounding behind her eyes. The large gold and black doors opened automatically, and she headed straight inside, hoping to find nothing but silence. 

Had fun tonight? A voice boasted from above her.

Oh, for fuck’s sake. She thought to herself, rolling her eyes.

She schooled her features and looked up to find her dearest cousin standing at the top of the grand staircase looking down at her. 

Bastard.

Of course, I did. You know I love the thrill of danger, she replied sarcastically, walking towards the staircase.

"Your arrogance, cousin, he spat out, makes this family look weak. Do not embarrass us like you have so many times before."

Nikolai Draco. 

One of the many nephews on Josephine’s mother’s side who her father also despised. Her half-witted cousin would occasionally get involved in her family’s business, trying his best to fit into a place where he was loathed. The poor bastard did not seem to realize that he was merely here at the manor for entertainment only. The others found his stupidity amusing. 

As for Josephine, she found it unendurable and extremely annoying. 

Whatever, Nik, nobody cares what you have to say. Go back to your room and wank yourself off, you insufferable pedo.

A look of disbelief and utter hatred was plastered on his face. As she made her way up the long flight of stairs and passed him, she heard him swear under his breath.

She casually said over a shoulder without stopping, "A bitch I am, cousin, but at least I am one to your face, even when it looks like that."

A scowl was his only response as she chuckled to herself. 

She loved getting under his skin. It excited her.

With that, she quickly disappeared down the long corridor into complete darkness.

Her bedroom was at the far end of the manor and no one, besides herself, occupied this part of her home. She liked the peace and quiet, but as she roamed through the many long corridors and turned the last corner heading to her room, she realized that someone or something else was nearby. Hoping it was not someone who was going to increase her now pounding headache, she passed into her room, slowly closing the heavy door behind her, and shutting it with a click, separating herself from the rest of the manor and those occupying it. 

Silence. 

She looked around to find an empty room covered in darkness. The only light in the bedroom was coming from the large windows and tall glass French doors at the far end of the room. The glistening moonlight poured itself into the room, giving off a black and white aesthetic. Her room looked the same as usual. Not even a maid had entered her chambers to clean up the mess she created before leaving for the club.

Josephine made her way across the room and opened the glass French doors. She walked out onto the balcony and relished in the icy breeze that swept past her. The balcony was not as large as she wished it was, although the small imperfection allowed her to take pleasure in the open space beyond the manor, making her feel free.

The view was incredibly breathtaking. 

The never-ending sky was a mixture of blue and black, with the moonlight piercing down onto the earth like it was here for revenge. The forest just outside the gates that surrounded the manor looked alive as the branches and leaves swayed in response to one another. Josephine thought the trees held the world’s secrets — they observed every new life, natural and manmade disasters, and the ongoing world wars. 

Further out into the land, the forest ended in a sharp cliff looking down onto the crashing waves underneath. The salt from the ocean was clear in the air and as she breathed it in, taking a sweet gulp down into her lungs, her tongue became coated with the taste of salt water.

The manor was quite large, but no human ever came to seek its beauty. It was hidden well within the estate, but a magical force within the forest protected those who wandered and looked for trouble. She grasped the railing and stared out into the open world, a small smile spreading across her face. 

A knock came at her door; she did not have to turn to know that whoever it was made their way inside. 

She continued looking out into the world when a small voice spoke softly behind her. 

I’m sorry for interrupting, madam, but your mother and father are expecting you in the dining room for dinner. Josephine turned to see that the maid was new. She had never seen her before and decided not to speak. A nod was her only response, and the maid left without another word. 

It was so bizarre to believe that Vampires continued certain Mundane traditions such as dinners, even though they did not need the nutrition from foods when blood was all that they craved. They could not survive without blood, no matter how old or strong a Vampire may be. Josephine thought it was a silly attempt at keeping the Mundane traditions alive.

Rolling her eyes, Josephine strolled to her walk in-wardrobe looking for something to wear. Her eyes landed on a very exquisite black gown. No sequins or any glitter, just a plain black satin dress that had a high slit down her right that reached to her ankles. After she quickly showered, washing off the essence of the club’s stench, she tried on the dress. It was tight fitted, but it complemented her figure well. She found a pair of extravagant matte red Louis Vuitton heels to go with it. After applying some simple makeup and straightening her long, wavy chestnut hair, she made her way down to the dining room.

As she finally made her way to the dining room, she passed a few maids who stared at her in awe. Josephine always knew that she was pretty, but never saw herself as beautiful. 

Never truly cared, really.

Looks were for deceiving and Josephine did not need to deceive others to get what she wanted.

The dark dining room was lit with many candles scattered around the room. Her father, in his black button up tunic and velvet forest green dress coat, sat at the head of the long dining table. His back was to the open fireplace, its fire roaring with life behind him. 

He looked displeased, but then again, he always did.

Her mother sat on his left with Nikolai sitting beside her, a smug expression on his face. Her mother’s lips thinned as she watched her only daughter approach. She, too, was in an evening gown, but much more elegant than Josephine’s. Her body was decorated with pretty jewels and her blond hair was neatly plaited into a small bun resting just underneath her left ear. Josephine’s mother always looked as though she had just come back from fashion week in Milan. 

I’m glad you’ve finally graced us with your presence, Josephine, her father announced without looking at her. 

A small smile played on Josephine's lips as she strode down the length of the table and took her seat on her father's right. The smile displayed on his face did not reach his eyes as he observed his daughter.

I would not miss dinner with my parents and a talking rat for anything, she finally responded quietly, her voice laced with sarcasm. 

Where were you, child? Her mother already knew, but she seemed to enjoy getting her daughter into trouble, especially when her father was around.

Out, she responded nonchalantly, picking at her manicured nails.

Oh, you should have taken Nikolai with you. I’m sure he’d love to spend some quality time with you. Her mother’s sweet voice was clearly condescending as she looked upon her daughter with a smirk.

"I don’t think so, mother. I was not born to care for a pig who lives in this manor only because he’s a relative of mine, Josephine stated matter-of-factly. Nikolai was about to protest when she continued saying, If you would like, I could show him to the dumpster. I think it’d best suit him since he is, you know, trash." There was a hint of amusement in her father's eyes, but he had a talent for hiding it.

You, cousin, have no respect for family, Nikolai spat out.

Don’t be so rude. He is your blood, Cecilia declared sternly, her eyes glimmering with a slight anger.

Josephine only shrugged, ignoring both her mother and cousin, whilst she picked at the food on her plate. 

For some time, Josephine had not been feeling like herself.  Her appetite would occasionally disappear when her body weakened, which was something she, like her father, hid very well. They were masters of concealing things that did not need to be shared with others.

The Draco bloodline, one of the last remaining bloodlines, was considered a legend in their society. It was one of the strongest bloodlines that ever existed in the Shadow World, a world secretly run by the supernatural whilst humans lived obliviously within it. 

Vampirism provided certain characteristics that allowed the species to walk amongst the humans. Their beautiful beauty seduced humans to be used and killed. Usually, Vampires would hide behind the Mundane veil, altering their appearance to be less of a threat. But they could not hide behind their immortality. Vampires naturally stayed young forever, but over time, their appearances changed to fit their age.

Josephine's father, Vladimir Draco, had fought and protected his family for centuries, always one step ahead of everyone. He was also a part of the leading council that oversaw most Vampires. 

He had a passion for killing rogue Vampires when he was much younger, but now he sat and observed the battlefield from his kingdom, picking battles he knew he would win for his own personal amusement.

Josephine had always been closer to her father - perhaps not as close as she wished, but closer than she was with her mother. Vladimir gave her freedom, knowing that being the only living heir of a powerful bloodline put her under a lot of pressure to be the representative of her family. 

Her mother, however, was the complete opposite. Cecilia Draco was a respected woman, but a terrible mother. Where Vladimir cared for Josephine’s safety, her mother only cared about her own position in her family and status within their society. She needed to come first, which left Josephine unloved and alone.

From the moment Josephine was born, she was treasured and protected from the world, forever kept hidden away from the eyes of her father's enemies, which had become her own. She lived in a state of constant isolation and loneliness that she was forced to suffer for the sake of her family. 

Josephine was trapped in a cage that her parents had created for her. There was no escaping, especially when her own mother was the one who held the key. No amount of freedom given to her by her father would ever allow her to be entirely free.

Josephine cleared her throat, drawing Vladimir’s attention to her. I was wondering if it would be alright, father, if I went abroad for a while? It would be nice to study the world more clearly.

Oh, you mean you do not want to go out and party? Her mother chimed in. 

Can you just shut the fuck up for once? Josephine thought as she glared at her mother.

I'm sure, Aunt Cecilia, that Josephine plans to do more than study. She is not very responsible, you see. She has proven that almost every day of her existence, Nikolai chimed in. 

 Both Josephine and Vladimir ignored Cecilia and Nikolai’s comments, as he responded after taking a sip from his glass of human blood, It is not the best time at the moment. That was all he had to say about that matter, and that was that. 

Yes, we will have some guests soon, her mother announced proudly. Her father gave her a pointed look, as if to quiet her.

Guests? Josephine asked suspiciously, still picking at her food. What kind of guests?

It is time we mend our relationships and strengthen our allies, Vladimir announced before his wife could say anything else. It seems there is restlessness amongst the Vampires. Uprisings have become more frequent and dangerous. This family will not be overthrown. There was a hint of worry in her father's eyes. 

Vladimir never worried. 

So, this must be serious. Josephine thought quietly.  

We have been keeping our allies close and nobody will touch this family. We’ll be fine, darling.

What the hell was going on?

Besides, the Dracos are well respected in our society. Aunt Cecilia is right; nobody could touch us, Nikolai chanted. 

Vladimir seemed displeased that Nikolai continued to chime in as if he was a part of this family.

Is there something I could do, father, to stop your unease? Josephine insisted after a while.

Vladimir carefully considered his next words. No. Well, at least not right now. Josephine tilted her head in confusion. She had done errands for her father in the past, but nothing ever too extreme.

As much as she despised her family, she would still give her life for them.

There was a time when she had been trained to fight like a warrior and survive like her life depended on it. She had always held her own in a fight but was never really interested in any political cases. That was all left to her parents, who would occasionally travel to mend and strengthen ties that were once lost over many decades.

But this felt different. Her father’s tone held more than just a simple statement. He seemed worried — guilty even. Josephine watched her father’s body go slightly rigid. It was as if the seriousness of the situation took a toll on him. His furrowed forehead sent a shiver down Josephine’s spine. She wanted to ease his worries but did not want to make matters worse.   

Dinner was long and completely boring. Nikolai and her mother continued gossiping about some scandalous drama whilst Vladimir chugged down his many glasses of blood, clearly ignoring them, his mind wandering elsewhere. 

After some time, Josephine’s parents and her cousin returned to their rooms, and she watched them disappear out the door. She sat alone for what seemed forever, thinking about what her father had said. 

Restlessness amongst the Vampires? 

That did not seem reassuring. Any conflicts that her father and the council encountered were always immediately settled. However, the look in her father's eyes… that worry unnerved Josephine. 

What if this is something that will threaten my family? Could my family go through another war?

Josephine’s mind continued to race. There were too many possibilities. Too many bad endings. She thought about a time when she was younger, when the humans’ first world war had ended and another had broken out amongst the Vampires. That rebellion had shaken the entire world.

Josephine was so young, only eight years old. Her father had been on the battlefield and her mother stood and watched from the castle that her family had occupied so long ago. She could remember being in her father’s office, listening to the screaming of those dying warriors and smelling the rotting corpses that laid bare and burnt from the sun's fiery blaze the day before.

After being exposed to the horrors of the war, the maids contained her in a small and secluded room that was built for her protection. Only a few trusted maids could go inside or even know of its existence. Vladimir had the hidden room built to protect his only heir. If he were to die, Josephine was to be protected until she came to an appropriate age to rule.

She remembered being trapped in that room. 

Hated being isolated. 

Her mother would never go down to check on her. 

No one would. 

She would be forgotten for days on end, and it drove her insane. The walls trapped her screams when she pleaded to be freed. 

But no one came. 

No one cared.

Protecting her was for their own benefit and not because they truly loved her.

The voice in the back of her mind never let her forget it. The words in her mind were like a record player repeating, you’re unworthy, you’re a pawn, you’re nothing, no one loves you.

The maids, pulling her out of her train of thought, began piling into the dining room, readying themselves to begin their duties. Josephine headed back to her room.

There was no one here to help entertain her or go along with her outings. She was completely and utterly alone, and she hated it.

There was no escaping her family’s lineage.

Her powerful bloodline ran deep in her veins. She was respected, of course, but never truly loved by anyone. Not even by her own parents. She was still that little girl inside, but was seen as damaged and unstable on the outside. There was no one who truly saw Josephine for who she was instead of what she was. 

She was cursed in a way.

And there was no way to break the curse of her fate.

Chapter 2

"As far as we know, we are only sheep in a field full of grass.

However, the wolf had other plans."

The sound of swords clashing against one another vibrated through the courtyard. Josephine trained with the guards almost every day; she could defend herself if her family could not.

How long must we be out here? 

Days had gone past and there was still no word from Josephine’s parents, who had abruptly left without a word the day after their ominous dinner.

They always