“As a matter of fact, itisjust as important,” Lucca replies in a cold voice, squaring his shoulders. “Thanks to the whims ofyourpeople, my uncle is dying.”
Not many things surprise my father, but when he winces and widens his eyes, it’s a rare sight. He schools his expression into a neutral mask quickly, though. “He should be dead already.”
“What the fuck!” Saxon blurts out.
“How can you say that?” I echo Saxon’s sentiment.
I’m surprised Lucca doesn’t blow a fuse, but when I glance at him and see the dejected look on his face, I understand why he didn’t punch my father in the throat. He’s breaking right in front of my eyes.
“Vivi and I have been feeding him our blood,” Rikkon explains. “It hasn’t cured his disease, but it bought him time.”
My father’s eyes narrow, and I can almost see the gears in his head working furiously. Then his blue eyes go blank, almost as if his mind is no longer here with us. His brow furrows, and the muscles around his mouth tense.
“What’s happening?” Lucca places a hand on my back.
“I don’t know.”
“He’s having a vision,” Rikkon answers in awe.
He would know since he’s been blessed—or cursed—with the sight.
After a moment, my father’s eyes clear, becoming sharp again as he stares at Lucca. “Take me to your uncle. I know now what must be done.”
LUCCA
Do I trust Vivi’s father? No. But perhaps whatever he saw in his vision will help my uncle. I’ll do anything to prevent him from dying.
King Ruel didn’t explain exactly what must be done, and Vivi and Rikkon didn’t have a clue either. To get to my uncle as quickly as possible, I traveled the wind with Vivi. Rikkon brought Miranda, and King Ruel followed us. Everyone else stayed behind, and I didn’t linger to hear their complaints.
The wards that protect my uncle’s mansion are already keyed to Vivi’s and Rikkon’s energies, so they can materialize inside the house. Mauricio joins us in the entry foyer and does a double take upon noticing the company.
“Who are you?” he asks, none too friendly.
“This is my father, King Ruel,” Vivi replies.
Mauricio’s eyes widen. “Have the portals been reopened, then?”
“Not yet. I’m working on it,” King Ruel answers. “I’m here to see your king.”
“He’s not himself right now. It’s not safe.”
Fuck. We took too long.
King Ruel’s lips curl into an arrogant smile. “I’ll take my chances.”
Mauricio looks at me with a question in his gaze. It’s up to me to decide.
“We’ll go see my uncle now.”
“We? Lucca… you can’t go.” Vivi’s eyes shine with worry.
I touch her face. “I’ll be all right, my love. Besides, your father won’t let anything happen to me.” I glance at the male, daring him to contradict me.
In any other circumstance, I wouldn’t dare enter my uncle’s room when he’s in berserk mode. He recognizes no one, and all he cares about is destroying and killing. It’s worse than being overwhelmed by bloodlust. It’s like being possessed by a demon.
“If you’re going, then so will I,” Rikkon says.
“Oh my God. Is this a testosterone contest thing?” Miranda puts her hands on her hips.
