Cave of Blood and Bone: Vampire Assassin Chronicles, #2

By Michelle Darnell

A vessel to resurrect a dead goddess…

 

Vampiric assassin Adina has survived her grandfather Sujani's magical schemes, only to land herself back in the deadly clutches of her estranged father—the King of Assassins. With Adina kidnapped, Sujani is more determined than ever to raise his deity. If the cunning mage can't procure his granddaughter as the sacrificial vessel, he'll be forced to substitute his age-old rival, Damon— the world's only other remaining First Vampire. But First Vampires aren't so easily overpowered and if he involves Damon, Sujani may well be the one laying on the sacrificial altar.

 

A vampire Princess fighting for her life… 

 

To kill one of the Firsts requires the use of the mythical Bone Shard Blade. The weapon forged from the bones of the last living dragon was lost in The Cataclysm over a millennia ago. As their quest unravels, so do Adina's feelings for Sir Elrich and his constant lies. She just wants to live her unlife as she chooses, free from the men in her family and their murderous games. However, one doesn't simply say no to the most powerful vampire in the world. 

 

Two First Vampires, one magical blade…

 

With the help of her knight, Sir Elrich, and her conniving father, Adina finds herself in a race against time and the world's two most powerful vampires to locate the Bone Shard Blade. Both Damon and Sujani must be stopped, but the legendary weapon can only be used once. Adina must choose between death at Sujani's hands or enslavement at Damon's.

 

Cave of Blood and Bones is a thrilling paranormal fantasy exploring found family, morally gray characters and redemption.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Hidden Lake Publishing LLC
• Release date: Nov 30, 2023
• ISBN: 9781962809054

Book preview

Chapter 1

Elrich

Sir Elrich wiped the sand from his eyes. It might have worked, had his hands not been even dirtier. At night, the Saldanian Desert was downright chilly, despite its scorching heat during the day. But regardless of the hour, it covered everything in sand. What he wouldn’t give to feel soft grass beneath his feet, to hear a babbling creek in the old growth forest near his home.

He rubbed his tongue over his teeth, hoping to dislodge the grit from between his fangs. Now he knew why Adina always wore her veil. He’d kill for that sort of breathable shield to keep the dirt from his nose and mouth.

The environment wasn’t doing his armor any favors, either. The fine granules scraped between the metallic plates over his shoulder, reducing his movement range.

He studied the sand-swept plain spread before him. Whatever had driven his foster father, Alaric, to hunt so fervently for the Bone Shard Blade after all this time, Elrich had no idea. The blasted thing had been lost for hundreds of years. The old vampire was so obsessed with finding it after the incident with Sujani in Brachia last year that he’d sent Elrich to the literal ends of the earth. The only vampire seemingly interested in the relic was the mage, Sujani.

And now Alaric.

Elrich kicked at the sand.

If he did find the blade, his first inclination would be to bury it deep in Sujani’s back. The world would be better off.

Walking through the endless desert had given him plenty of time to ponder the situation. He wasn’t stupid enough to think he stood a chance against Sujani. However, Adina’s father, Septimus, had just as much reason to want the ancient mage dead. Enough that he might be willing to trade the Bone Shard Blade for Adina’s freedom.

Gaining an audience with the King of Assassins wouldn’t be easy, but someone like Septimus should have connections throughout all the major cities. It was just a matter of finding one and brokering a deal.

After he found the Bone Shard Blade, of course.

Elrich reached into his pocket and rubbed the thin piece of silk between his thumb and forefinger. It had been Adina’s, almost a year ago. The fabric had lost its vibrant color, but it still served as a reminder of his vow to free her from Septimus.

His search for her had been just as fruitless as his search for the blade.

He crested yet another sand dune and paused, hands on his hips, as he surveyed the scene before him. An orange glow permeated the horizon—the night torches of The Drowned City.

An ironic name for a metropolis in the middle of the desert.

He stepped on something that snapped like a crushed seashell and was rewarded with a sharp, burning pain that shot up his ankle.

God’s teeth! He was so finished with this blasted place.

He lifted his foot away from the flailing tail of the scorpion he’d crushed. And the stupid creature had managed to sting him in the only ankle seam of his plate armor, too.

The fortunate thing about already being dead was the venom wouldn’t kill him. It still stung to high heavens, though.

Elrich plopped down on the sand, removed his boot, and massaged the poison from the wound.

That was it. After The Drowned City, he was done. He’d go back to Gorlinia, report his failure to Alaric, and try to come up with a better way to locate Adina. Or Septimus.

Perhaps there was something else he could offer the King of Assassins to buy her freedom. Something easier to procure than a mythical blade.

His mind lost deep in thought, Elrich let his feet propel him over the endless hills of sand, toward the city lights. Another gust of wind rammed into his face. He closed his eyes and shuffled down the dune.

The Drowned City was busier than he’d expected, considering it was the dead of night. But then, the city’s inhabitants likely bedded down during the heat of the day. Meat soaked in curry crackled over spits. Tantalizing scents of spiced teas and coffees tickled his nose that would’ve been quite tempting had he still been human. Elrich wandered through the marketplace, ignoring the glares and wide berth the locals gave him.

His first priority was locating shelter from the day; then he’d begin his search for the blade in the city’s library.

You! Gorlinian! A tanned youth wearing flowing pants secured tightly at his waist and ankles stepped in front of Elrich. A few scraggly hairs clung to his chin—the first attempt to grow a beard. Several other teenagers flanked him from behind. Your kind aren’t welcome here.

Elrich sighed but resisted the urge to reach for his sword. Get out of my way, boy. I’ve no interest in a fight.

Too bad. Because we’re going to show you what happens to Gorlinians who invade The Drowned City.

Elrich blinked and glanced around in mock surprise. Invade? With what army? Do I look like I’m here to invade, you idiots? Step aside. He had forgone wearing his tabard with the red sword to avoid this very reaction. Apparently, he’d underestimated the hatred of the Hakkian locals.

Based on Adina’s initial reaction to him, he should’ve known better.

No, you step aside. The human youth pulled a blade the length of his forearm and lunged. The boys behind him cheered.

Elrich batted the sword aside with his bracer, taking care to make the move appear as effortless as possible. I don’t have time for this foolishness.

The youth bared his teeth and swung his weapon toward Elrich’s throat. Elrich deflected to his left and punched the boy hard enough to send him staggering into his friends. He was careful to hold back so as not to kill or permanently injure the foolish child.

The youth’s face flushed reddish-purple, and he flew toward Elrich, propelled by his friends’ shoves.

Elrich stepped to the side at the last moment, dodging the youth’s sword, and stuck out his leg, tripping his opponent and sending him face first into a fruit vendor’s cart. The produce fell onto the youth’s body, covering him in sticky, sweet juices. He groaned, struggling to push himself off the ground.

Elrich tossed the vendor a couple gold Hakkian coins, which the man caught with a glare. Ignoring the man’s displeasure, Elrich turned to the rest of the group and drew his sword. Anyone else want to try their luck, or will you be getting out of my way?

Before he could blink twice, the entire group had dispersed into the market as though they’d never existed. He turned to the young man extricating himself from the ruined produce. I recommend you consider both your opponents and your friends more wisely in the future. He shoved his sword into its sheath with more force than necessary to hammer the point home.

The market was significantly quieter as Elrich continued on his way. Word of their altercation would likely spread like wildfire, making it more challenging for him to gain discreet entrance to the library tomorrow night. And if he couldn’t get into the library, he would be stuck bumbling about the city blindly in his search for the blade.

At the far end of the long row of market stalls, a middle-aged woman leaned out of a doorway, beckoning him closer. He nearly passed her by, but something in her gaze seemed familiar.

Elrich took a deep breath. A dense fog of incense wafted from the dwelling, but he was fairly certain no other living beings hid in its depths. The incense tickled his nose—the same scent Adina had used back in Brachia. With his hand on his sword, he approached.

What can I do for you this evening, m’lady?

She chuckled, shaking her head. "No, Gorlinian. Wrong question, yet again. It’s what can I do for you."

Yet again? He shook his head. I don’t have time for this. The sun would be up in just a few hours. He turned to resume his search.

That which you seek is closer than you think.

He froze. It couldn’t be. He turned, studying the woman’s face, partially hidden in shadows cast by the fire inside.

Her gaze had the same faintly unfocused look Madalina’s usually did.

He took a step closer. Seer?

She smiled and nodded. Come inside, quickly now. Before anyone notices.

Elrich rested his hand on the pommel of his sword and followed the woman into the darkness.

A curtain of beads swung closed behind him with a melodious clack, and the incense threatened to overwhelm his senses. He blinked the sting from his eyes. Memories of Adina danced through his mind, making his gut twist.

The woman led him into the main room, where burgundy and gold throw pillows surrounded a low table with a circular mirror on the surface. The layout reminded him of Adina’s quarters back at the keep.

He gasped as a searing thrust of longing and nostalgia sliced through him.

The seer perched on one of the pillows and gestured for him to do the same.

He moved the cushion to the side and sat directly on the floor. I hope you’re not offended, he said with an apologetic glance. Bad experience in the past.

One corner of her lips crept upward. I believe it, knight. She laid her hands palms up on either side of the mirror. Place your hands on mine, and focus on your reflection.

Elrich drew back. I can’t pay you for your services. I need what I have for a place to sleep. And a possible bribe for entrance into the library.

She flexed her fingers and cleared her throat. Did Kasse ask you for payment?

She must be Kasse. He shook his head. Well, no.

Very well, then. She trapped him with her gaze and tapped the backs of her hands against the table.

With a sigh, Elrich laid his palms on top of hers.

Now, focus on the mirror, and the one you search for.

The air before them split in two, revealing a blue-white circle that coalesced into a face he’d hoped to never see again.

Elrich bared his fangs at Sujani’s image.

The ancient mage stared back through the portal at him, his lips and forehead pinched into an uncharacteristic glower. Elrich Von Heinrich. Sujani’s voice echoed as if from a great distance. I need your help…Adina needs your help.

Every nerve in Elrich’s body tingled, coming to life. He opened his mouth to ask where Adina was, but Sujani held up his hand. Seek out Baron Arthur, Captain of the Guard in The Drowned City.

Rage boiled Elrich’s blood, turning his vision scarlet. I don’t care about some baron. Where’s Adina?

Sujani’s face went expressionless, his gaze boring into Elrich’s soul. The baron has the Talent to locate people. Provided you have something that once belonged to Adina, he can find her.

Elrich removed one hand from the seer’s and slid it into his pocket, grasping Adina’s veil.

The delicate material crumpled in his fingers. You couldn’t have told me this a year ago and saved me months of marching across Gorlinia, Champeaux, and the Saldanian Desert?

Sujani sighed, and for the briefest of moments, he looked as frail as he was before the Cataclysm turned him into a vampire.

Erik, get ahold of yourself.

Elrich bared his fangs. Calling me by that name isn’t going to win you any favor.

Sujani’s hard gaze speared him to the ground. I’m not worried about your favor. I’m worried about my granddaughter. Do as I say and find the baron.

The portal winked out of existence with an explosion of thunder that shook the dwelling’s walls.

Kasse blinked, her eyes turning from solid white to her natural brown over the course of a few heartbeats. She smiled at him. Well, Gorlinian. Did you learn anything you needed to know?

Elrich pushed himself to his feet, studying her. She appeared uninjured, which was remarkable considering who she’d channeled. He dusted his palms off on his trousers. Perhaps. Thank you for your time.

She nodded. Beware who you trust, knight. A year can be a long time, even for an immortal.

Cold tingles pricked their way up Elrich’s spine and around his neck at her words. He shoved the beaded curtain aside and stepped out to take a deep breath of incense-free air before turning back to the seer.

Where would I find the captain of the city guard?

She pointed. Go east until you meet the city wall, then north until you reach an octagonal building. There lie his offices.

Elrich nodded in thanks and stepped into the street. He ran his fingers through his hair, exhaling. He’d have to move quickly if he didn’t want the dawn to catch him.

The Drowned City was certainly nothing short of exciting. This was the most promising lead he’d had on Adina since Madalina had refused to help him. Even if the source was suspect.

The question was, how could he avoid getting caught up in Sujani’s latest scheme?

The moon hung two finger-widths lower in the sky when Elrich marched up the grand staircase leading to the octagonal Capitol Building of The Drowned City. Butterflies danced in his gut at the possibility that this captain of the King’s Guard, Baron Arthur, could finally put an end to his search for Adina.

Reaching into his pocket, he absently fingered the scrap of silk. Surely it would work?

In most cities, the buildings would be dark and silent at this time of night, but apparently, The Drowned City never slept. Like the market, lights still blazed from most of the Capitol’s windows. Messengers scurried in and out of the building, carrying their masters’ precious missives. Foreigners were much more prevalent in this area of town than the market, though Elrich’s presence still garnered plenty of glares and rude gestures.

Excuse me. He approached a man sitting at a desk just inside the main door. I’m looking for the captain of the guard’s office?

The human glanced up from a ledger, his expression tightening into a loathing sneer as he studied Elrich. Jerking his head toward a staircase across the hall, he snarled, Second floor, all the way down on the left. Then he went back to writing, as though Elrich wasn’t standing before him.

Shrugging, Elrich turned and headed up the indicated stairwell. His footsteps echoed off the cold marble. He didn’t pity the poor fool responsible for keeping the floor clean and polished, but the ostentatious display of wealth served its purpose.

Reaching the end of the hall, he knocked on the ancient oak door that displayed a placard declaring it as the captain’s office. He waited several heartbeats with no response before leaning his ear against the wood. No sounds came from within. A quick glance underneath the door revealed no lights inside. It looked like the secretary had knowingly sent him to an empty office.

Perhaps this captain of the guard was one who opted to lead from the front with his men rather than sit behind a bureaucrat’s desk?

Like Elrich had, back in his human days.

Retracing his steps down the hall, Elrich took two deep breaths to calm his racing heart. Stomping through the building would accomplish nothing except irritate the locals who already didn’t want a Gorlinian in their midst.

He made his way—calmly, dammit—back to the secretary, who was studiously ignoring him. Slamming both palms on either side of the man’s ledger, Elrich leaned forward. He dropped his mask slightly, letting the demon inside peek out, and growled, I asked where to find the captain of the guard.

The human paled. The hand holding his quill shook the slightest amount, but to his credit, he met Elrich’s gaze. You asked where his office was. I directed you to his office.

Elrich bared his fangs and exhaled through his teeth. And the captain?

Most likely out at the guard cabin by the north wall. The secretary swallowed. Sir.

Less than a quarter hour later, a young guardsman led Elrich into the guard cabin.

Captain, the young man said, may I present Sir Elrich Von Heinrich. With a sharp salute, the soldier left the room to return to his post.

The man in front of Elrich appeared to be in his mid-to-late twenties. He had light brown hair that tumbled to his shoulders in gentle curls and framed a kind face that seemed like it would smile easily. He oozed charisma, and Elrich liked him immediately, despite the fact that the person before him was another vampire.

Baron Arthur?

Leaning back in his chair, the baron waived his hand dismissively. Captain, please. I only use my title when I need to throw my weight around. He smiled. What can I do for you, Sir Elrich?

He stepped forward. A friend of mine is missing. Kidnapped. I was hoping you could help me find her?

The smile slid from the captain’s face as he leaned forward in his seat. Kidnapped you say. In The Drowned City?

Elrich shook his head. No. Up north on the Brachian border, nearly a year ago. She was taken by a very strong vampire, but I have reason to believe you can help me find her.

I see. He glanced around the room and beckoned Elrich closer. Do you have something belonging to your friend?

Slowly, Elrich drew Adina’s veil from his pocket and held it out. Will this work?

It will if you have five gold pieces to go with it.

Elrich pulled the requested money from his purse and laid it on the captain’s desk. Hopefully he didn’t have to bribe his way into the library tomorrow. This was almost everything he had.

Arthur nodded and slid the coins off the desk into a drawer. Taking the veil in his hands, he closed his eyes.

He was motionless for several heartbeats.

Elrich shifted his weight side to side as he attempted to be patient.

Arthur inhaled sharply and sat up straight in his chair. The thump of the man’s heart was clear even to Elrich’s ears.

Arthur opened his eyes and speared Elrich with a hard gaze, all traces of good humor gone. What interest does a Gorlinian knight have with the owner of this veil?

Elrich froze at the sudden stab of ice that pierced his heart at Arthur’s cold expression. I told you—she’s a friend and was kidnapped. I need your help to find her.

Arthur slammed his fists on his desk. Don’t lie to me! Adina would never befriend a Gorlinian.

Elrich took a step backward, his jaw falling slack at the other man’s over-the-top reaction. What reason would I have to lie?

Arthur ripped his sword from its scabbard and lunged at Elrich, swinging. Get out of my office, Gorlinian swine! Out! Out!

Elrich drew his sword and barely managed to parry the man’s attack. He swatted the blade away, leaned in and snatched the veil from the desk where Arthur had dropped it.

His ribs constricted as he forced the words past thickened vocal cords. Please, just tell me where she is! She’s in mortal danger. She could already be dead, for all he knew.

Arthur slowly drove Elrich from his office until he slammed the door unceremoniously in his face. Under the disapproving gazes of the men of the night’s watch, Elrich turned and trudged back to the street. His racing heart slowed as the heat flooding his veins faded away until nothing but ice remained.

What a bizarre turn of events. Baron Arthur had been willing to help, until he discovered who Elrich had been asking about.

If only Elrich’s father was here, with the ability to control minds. Charles would be able to force the baron to reveal Adina’s location.

Elrich shook his head. Out of everyone he’d asked for help in his search for Adina, Arthur’s reaction was the most mysterious. Perhaps he was afraid to cross the King of Assassins, her father.

Or he was allied with him.

Elrich glanced at the moon, hanging low on the horizon. He’d have to puzzle out Arthur’s reaction another night. If he didn’t find shelter soon, the sun would end his troubles for him.

With one last glance over his shoulder at the Capitol Building, Elrich threw his shoulders back, held his chin high, and strode from the square.

Chapter 2

The Burning City, Adina

Adina gasped at the sudden awareness of rough wood sliding against raw tissue and catching against her ribcage. It felt like removing a splinter, but on an infinitely bigger scale. As soon as the stake cleared her chest, her veins burned, setting every nerve aflame as though she was standing in the brightest sun.

Pointed fangs punched through her lips. Every nerve in her body burned, urging her atrophied muscles to lunge for the pulse of life a mere arm’s length away. She was too weak to obey. Blood… The word was more of a groan, as though she were a dying man in the middle of the Saldanian Desert.

Shh! Quiet. A cool hand clamped gently but firmly over her mouth.

She blinked. Either her vision hadn’t come back yet, or they were somewhere pitch black. But beneath the blood-fever raging through her body, she recognized that voice.

Something deep inside her unclenched. Arthur? The name scraped against desiccated vocal cords, barely a whisper around his fingers.

That’s right, I’ve got you. He slid one hand behind her head, propping it up as he removed his other hand from her mouth and presented his wrist. Here, drink.

She bit into the offered artery before she’d processed his words. Their heartbeats synchronized and blood swooshed past her ears with every swallow. Adina barely heard him groan as, far too slowly, the burning eased.

As soon as she was reasonably certain she wouldn’t attack the first living creature she came across and drain it dry, she pushed his arm away. That’s enough. Thank you.

Even though it was still dark, she could almost see the disapproving frown on his face. Are you sure?

Yes, we need to get out of here. She could control herself for now, but she’d have to hunt soon. Adina let him help her sit up as she blinked and stared into the darkness around them. Where are we? She’d been laying on something soft and cushioned.

In the guest room of one of the mansions in the noble district of The Burning City. He scooted to the side as she swung her legs over the edge of the mattress. Do you know how you got here?

No. The last thing I remember… her voice drifted off. Fingers intertwining with Erik’s as they watched Damon and Sujani duel far above. Then… She shook her head. She had no right to be disappointed that it was Arthur here with her instead of Erik. A blinding pain, like the very fabric of my mind was being torn in two. Then nothing. She lifted one hand to her chest, pressing against the hole in her torso. Erik hadn’t been the one who staked her. She turned to Arthur, blinking as his shadow coalesced in her vision. What happened? And how did you know to come for me? Maybe Erik had told him, and they were working together?

He took her hand and pulled her to her feet. I’m not sure what happened. We’re in your father’s stronghold, so it’s likely that, whatever it was, he was involved.

A blade of ice stabbed into her core. My father? She swallowed. Knowing him, he’d probably staked her himself.

Don’t worry. Someone challenged him for control of the Assassin’s Guild last night.

Adina opened her mouth to ask who had been foolish enough to do such a thing, but snapped her jaw shut with a quick shake of her head. She didn’t know any of the assassins in The Burning City, so it made no difference.

No one had challenged Septimus for leadership of the guild since centuries before she’d been turned.

Her heart froze in her throat as Arthur led her to the door. What was the contest? Assassins didn’t do anything so mundane as kill each other during leadership challenges. It would’ve been something to prove their strength and dedication to The Guild.

Arthur glanced over his shoulder before cracking the door open and peering into the hallway. Of all the idiotic things, who could stand in the sun the longest without immolating.

By the Seven Gods… How long?

He raised his eyebrow and turned to face her, putting both hands on her shoulders. I think your father may be a record-holder…he lasted five whole minutes.

Damn. He was unimaginably strong. Stronger than she’d ever be.

She stood no chance against someone like him.

Arthur tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. He’ll be sleeping like a baby for the next week at least. Plenty of time for us to get back to my estate in The Drowned City.

Yes, she said. But what about his guards? It was too bad she couldn’t stake him and leave him to rot, just like he had her. His personal attendants were far too loyal, or fearful, to allow that to happen.

Arthur raised an eyebrow and glanced over his shoulder at her. His guards?

Adina grabbed his arm and pulled him back as a fist flew through the darkness where his head had been a split second before. She pulled one of Arthur’s swords from its sheath at his waist as he reached for the second blade.

Ducking beneath his outstretched arm, she lunged at their unseen assailant.

Her opponent kicked her knee, knocking her to the ground.

She swung the weapon blindly in the guard’s direction but met no resistance. Footsteps sounded behind her as more of Septimus’ men approached.

A satisfying thump sounded as Arthur’s sword found a target.

She leapt to her feet and jabbed her blade at the one who’d tried to punch Arthur. The pressure of Arthur’s back against hers grounded her and awakened instincts that had lain dormant since Septimus staked her.

A foggy shadow moved in the darkness ahead. She aimed for its neck and slashed.

A hand, stronger than it had any right to be,