Lucien stood before the Originals, his head held high despite the weight of centuries of pressure pressing down on him at this moment. Torchlight flickered across the ancient stone walls of the council chamber, casting dancing shadows that seemed alive. This room held too many memories. He'd stood in this exact spot centuries ago, desperately trying to protect Elena Hayes. Now here he was again, fighting for another Hayes woman. The universe, it seemed, had a twisted sense of humor.
The Thirteen thrones formed a half circle before him, each one as unique as its owner. The shadows around King Arthur's throne writhed and twisted like living things. Ice crystals grew and melted endlessly around Queen Frost's seat. Lord Inferno's throne smoldered with tiny flames, while Lord Gordon's was wrea
