Kingdom of Embers Volume 1

“I know the drill. Don’t isolate, but don’t over share. And don’t eat or kill anyone. I got it.” I rolled my eyes, thinking Mother would prefer to have background checks on every student at the high school. I knew she already had intel on the cheer girls’ families. God, she was paranoid. I wished she’d realize I was almost an adult and could handle myself. Thinking it placed me in a good position socially, cheerleading was the one activity she allowed me to participate in, so I counted my blessings and didn’t ask for more. Humans weren’t supposed to know about vampires or witches. Those that did posed a threat. Further, because I represented a species forbidden by witch and vampire cultures alike, Mother took every precaution.

I stepped out of the vehicle, face to the sun, taking in its warm glow.