Alpha Nocurne's Contracted Mate

Alpha Nocturne’s Contracted Mate by A E Randell

Chapter 163 The Daemon War

“Times were very different back then and I had been dumped on the doorstep of the Moon Goddess’s Sanctuary that used to stand at the midpoint of our Kingdom.” He continued with the slightest hint of regret as he sighed again, a little more softly this time.

“I try not to dwell on it too much as I know it was done in an effort to give me a better life than a clan less Vampire and a rogue shifter could give me back then. Now, of course, things are very much different. You can settle anywhere in the kingdom as long as you register with the authorities, perhaps even join a community if they are willing, although being independent is certainly something to be admired…” Bartholomew rambled a little before stopping and grimacing apologetically. “Ah, I’m sorry, I appear to have wandered off on a tangent. It happens sometimes.”

“It’s okay. But, Bartholomew, wasn’t the Sanctuary destroyed during the war though?” Ann frowned.

So much of their history and monuments had been destroyed in that dark period of the war between the Daemon Lords and their realm. Despite the efforts of so many good people, parts of the land were still so badly tainted by the darkness that they had been sealed and were guarded closely to ensure that no one wandered into them by mistake.

“It was indeed.” Bartholomew nodded slowly at Ann.

“Then, you lived through the Daemon War?” Lexi asked curiously.

“I did indeed. I was evacuated with the other children and the priestesses when the attacks first began. They knew the Sanctuary would be a main target and they wanted to ensure that we survived. The Alpha King at the time, welcomed us and gave us sanctuary, providing apprenticeships to the thousands of children that had suddenly descended upon the city. I was placed as an a*s*sistant to an Elder in the lower ranks of the Royal Enclave at the time, he taught me a lot. As he ascended the ranks, I too followed behind him.” Bartholomew said sadly, as his eyes clouded with nostalgia

in the Enclave at that time? Wasn’t it hard?” Lexi asked, clearly struggling to wrap her head

they painted me to be. But you have to remember Lexi, you cannot judge one person for the crimes of their races, nor for the opinions of their ancestors. It is far better to judge each individual on their own personalities

smallest hint of doubt still flickered in her eyes although the fury and distrust that had

that I won’t be guarded though,” Lexi grumbled quickly as

hope that you won’t be permanently on the offensive with us. At least give us a chance

back in the

Ann smiled softly to herself and listened to Bartholomew regale her with anecdotes and tales of her mother’s heroism and

change, with

for just a little while. This would do far more to win Lexi’s trust and cooperation than any hollow words

radiated contentment, as if her soul had been relieved of some burden somehow, and grinned

Bartholomew. Honestly. I had no idea that she

Bartholomew chuckled good-naturedly.

a pleasure to be able to recount these tales quite honestly. She certainly was a spitfire, a lot like yourself actually, and as much as it pains me, I do believe we have some very pressing matters

to where they’re held?” Ann asked as Bartholomew stood,

with Lexi first

Lexi snorted.