Defect of Servitude [Book #1]

?Twenty-Three: Dear Madelyn

But did you know you have access to magic like the wickeds? Or that you possess the ability to seduce like a succubus? These skills are more challenging to master, but they can become invaluable with practice. If possible, find a mentor—a master. They can guide you more effectively than mere words on a page. However, remember that knowledge is power; simply knowing you have these abilities can open doors you never knew existed.

Magic? I could invoke sorcery? The thought sent my mind racing, contemplating the possibilities. Did this mean I had the potential for absolute power? I couldn't help but wonder if my newfound ability to seduce was what had given me the upper hand against Jaxon during our sparring session. While I was aware of our mutual attraction, it hadn't occurred to me that he might lower his guard so easily, and maybe there was more to it than that.

Part Two - Balance

It has become clear that wielding such power comes with dire consequences. The gene mimics various supernatural races' traits and leaves our bodies incomplete. Some aspects remain undeniably human; the more we tap into our powers, the more our bodies break down. I first felt this shift five years after discovering my true identity. After the adrenaline faded, I noticed my heart skipping beats.

Doctors at the manor discovered that the chambers of my heart were weakening. Although the rapid healing properties of the defect gene could repair it over time, I was left vulnerable for days after lengthy missions.

As time passed, the healing process slowed significantly. I suspect that if I continue at this pace, I will either lose all the advantages the gene offers or it will ultimately kill me. Do not use your abilities lightly, and please prioritize your health. Other defects have suffered similar fates. They're all gone now.

Fear wove its way through me again. I felt incredible—better than I had ever felt—but would that change? What effects are happening inside my body right now? How much time had I already used up with training?

Part Three - Reactions

Every supernatural being possesses hidden psychic abilities. We're not entirely sure why, but the gene amplifies what would otherwise be normal human sensations when in the presence of someone using telepathy.

Living among vampires, I'm sure you've noticed how your body reacts to those around you. Vampires can dominate humans, compelling them to submit for their sustenance without harm. However, for you, those sensations will be far more intense.

Werewolves have the unique ability to persuade; beware of this. Humans naturally struggle to resist a wolf's desires if they simply ask, but for those with the defect gene, it becomes nearly impossible to resist. Do not let them take advantage of you.

Wickeds are the most dangerous, especially when angered. Humans tend to keep their distance when possible, but a powerful wicked can force you to stay. This rare ability is one to heed; if you encounter it, ignore your whispers. They will lead you astray.

Succubi thrive on lust. If you allow it, that desire can consume you, burning from the inside out until madness takes hold. It all comes down to control—always. Do not show your weaknesses. Do not allow yourself to become a victim. Overcome. Be strong.

I recalled the beginning of my time around Jaxon, right after my gene activated. Even when I wanted to avoid him, my body responded to his presence with an intensity I couldn't ignore. That reaction has only strengthened as I've accepted my attraction to him. How much of it is my body's natural response, and how much stems from my genuine feelings for him?

As those thoughts settled in, I began to view the supernaturals around me with a newfound wariness. Their powers and allure now felt more like a double-edged sword.

Part Four - Enemies

You will always have someone against you. Once they learn of your powers, they want to own or destroy you. Denallsh, the Lord of the Cathcart bloodline, is seeking a way to undermine the crown. Since discovering who I am, he has tried relentlessly to eliminate me. I suspect he's mastered the ways of the wickeds. While he cannot fully harness sorcery, he possesses the means to manipulate a defect in devastating ways.

He is the most formidable foe the crown has faced since their rule and utterly ruthless. To him, humans are nothing more than food—treated with as much regard as you'd give a bowl of soup. He believes that supernaturals were made to rule over humans and that mistakes were made when the ancients decided to separate our worlds. If he prevails and gains control, the consequences will be horrific. He would drag us back into the human realm solely to turn them into chattel.

Until he is stopped, no enemy will be more critical. I fear this mission will inevitably pass from me to you, my daughter. I am genuinely sorry for that.

Dry tear splatters splattered the page, remnants of my mother's emotions spilling forth as she grappled with her regrets. I could feel the remorse radiating from her words, a silent apology for what she believed she had done to me. But how could I ever be angry with a woman who had no choice in her fate? Just like me, she was bound to this destiny—woven into the very fabric of our lives.

Part Five -

The last page remained blank, an unfinished thought lingering in the silence. Did she intend to continue, only to be interrupted by fate? My heart shattered anew as I clutched the journal to my chest, the weight of her absence pressing down on me. Whatever path lay ahead, it was steeped in so much pain.

This chapter is pretty short, so I thought it would be a good idea to have it act as a continuation of the last and keep them together. It's so heartbreaking that Madelyn's mother had every intention to meet her, but she died sooner than she thought she would. Do you think this will offer Maddie some closure? Will she be able to master her other skills now that she knows about them? Find out next week!

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