The Vow

“Isn’t your princess ashamed? Coming here with that icy face—”
“Apologies, miss. My princess sends her regrets.”
Helos bowed deeply, hands crossed over her abdomen.

“Skip the apology. Stop bothering my lady. Not everyone can befriend you bloodsuckers!” Ceris snapped, her tone dripping sarcasm.

They think my lady’s an easy mark? She’d watched Selina bleed white—how could she not ache? To Ceris, Selina was family, not just a mistress.

Seeing the culprits dare invite her again? No species is cheaper than vampires—except maybe scheming humans!

At the dorm entrance, Ceris blocked the door, arms akimbo.

Helos maintained her apologetic bow. Lunchtime crowds whispered at the odd standoff.

Ceris fumed, but Selina arrived, patting her shoulder. “Let me handle this.” Ceris stepped aside respectfully.

Selina faced the still-bowing Helos, expression neutral. “Rise. Speak inside.” Helos followed, closing the door on gossiping students.

Helos explained Avia’s invitation, handing over a letter. Selina read it, then set it face-down. “How’s your princess?”
“Thanks to you, she’s recovering well.”
“Good. I’ll attend tonight. Report back.”
“Thank you for your trust.” Helos left gratefully.

Ceris exploded. “Miss, why agree?”
“A princess invited me—for diplomacy. What’s wrong?” Selina shrugged innocently.
“But what if it’s another trap?”
“It won’t be. I hold her leash now—and the letter’s intriguing.”

Evening, Outer City – Moonlit Tavern

The upscale yet understated tavern glowed softly.

Selina and Ceris entered; a server led them upstairs to a private booth—perfect for discreet talks.

Avia rose, curtsying gracefully. Her crimson eyes lacked their former scheming glint; the atmosphere felt warmer.

Selina returned the courtesy, both princesses exemplars of poise.

Seated, attendants at the door, Selina studied Avia’s simple black gown—elegant, less gothic.

“You keep staring. Something on my face?” Avia asked, a shy note in her voice.
“No. This outfit suits you better—less ominous than last time.”
“Really? I’ll try this style more if you like it.” Avia’s eyes lit up.

“Enough chatter. Your purpose?” Selina cut in.

Avia nodded solemnly, producing a golden card etched with runes, sliding it over.

Then she bowed ninety degrees. “For my past selfishness, I apologize. You saved me despite it. I, Avia Night, swear by my soul: I’ll be your blade, your will—until flesh decays and soul fades.”

Silence fell.

A crimson command seal flared on Selina’s hand, linking their souls.

Helos gasped; even Ceris paled. Soul oaths were binding—Avia had surrendered control, her life Selina’s to command five times.

No retreat.

“You’d let me puppet you?” Selina asked, complex emotions swirling.
“Without this seal, I’ve been puppeteered—killed my mother.

This ensures I never harm you… or myself.” Tears welled in Avia’s eyes. “My bloodline’s madness could resurface.

This oath protects you—and restrains me from self-destruction.”

Selina hesitated, tempted by power: a future empress under her thumb.

But Hestia’s voice echoed: Accept. Give a despairing girl light.

Reject her, and she falls deeper into darkness.

“I accept,” Selina said firmly, meeting Avia’s gaze.

“By this seal, I command: Avia, never harm yourself, for any reason.”

Red ripples spread from the seal to Avia.

Chains of restraint locked her suicidal impulses.

Tears fell—not of rage, but relief. “Yes… Your Highness.” She sobbed, voice breaking.