Blood Legacy: Heir to the Throne Read Online Free PDF Page A

not aware they were expecting anyone.
    Ryan cocked her head to one side, her gaze focused on a very distant point. She appeared to be listening to something only she could hear. Her focus returned to the room, and then to Edward.
    “You will need to prepare the entire east wing.”
    Edward’s frown increased. There was only one person who traveled with such an entourage. He nodded stiffly.
    “Very well, my lord. I will have the staff prepare quarters immediately.”
    CHAPTER 4
    RYAN STOOD AT THE TOP OF THE STAIRS watching the caravan approach. Were she so inclined, she would have counted the limousines, but it seemed something close to twenty, which was as precise as she cared to be. The lead car pulled around the circular drive, stopping just forward the stairs. The car second in line came to a stop directly at the bottom of the stairs. Ryan steeled herself as doors began opening.
    Men and women began pouring from the vehicles. Mostly male, all were attractive and moved with an elegant athleticism. They glanced up at the figure at the top of the stairs, bowing in respect if they had previously met Ryan, and standing dumbfounded if they had not.
    Ryan was oblivious, her eyes on the car at the foot of the stairs. A manservant opened the door and extended his hand. The hand was accepted, although this occupant needed no assistance.
    A strikingly beautiful older woman stepped from the vehicle. Regal and mesmerizing, she flowed with a grace that was hypnotic. She raised her eyes to Ryan, and Ryan felt the gaze pierce her to her core. The wave of power emanating out from the woman washed over her, bringing her both pleasure and discomfort. Ryan knew she displayed none of this outwardly, and knew just as surely Abigail was fully aware of it.
    Those in the entourage watched the scene, astonished. Even those who had seen the crown prince and the matriarch together were surprised at the currents flowing between them. The interaction between Old Ones was always intense, and these two were arguably the most powerful of their Kind.
    Ryan started down the steps. Abigail watched as the girl approached, noting the same careless, boyish sense of fashion Ryan had possessed for centuries. She also noted the girl wore it with the same devastating effect. Abigail extended her hand as the girl neared.
    Ryan grasped the fingers and bowed, brushing her lips across the hand in a chivalrous gesture. Abigail felt the shock of electricity flow through her arm and inwardly smiled at the girl’s impudence. Ryan ever was one to tempt fate.
    Ryan raised her head and offered her arm. “Welcome, my lady. Your usual accommodations have been prepared.”
    Abigail took the arm and they started up the steps. “I appreciate your hospitality, as always, my dear.”
    They passed Edward at the top of the stairs, and he bowed low. Abigail glanced at him.
    “Edward,” she said with something close to disdain.
    “My lady,” he replied. He stood upright and watched as Ryan and the matriarch entered the great doors. He was not so foolish to display any disrespect, but he was also very protective of his master. This One was exceedingly dangerous.
    Ryan glanced backward over her shoulder at him, a look of mischief on her face. Then again, Edward thought, his master generally did not require any protection.
    Ryan led Abigail to the stairway. “Would you like me to show you to your quarters?”
    Abigail tilted her head, extending her senses throughout the estate. She turned to Ryan.
    “I think I would like to pay my respects to your father first.”
    Ryan bowed, perhaps a bit stiffly as the mention brought her pain. Abigail watched the reaction knowingly.
    “Of course,” Ryan said, “I will take you to him now.”
    Ryan led Abigail into Victor’s chambers, and the beautiful matriarch moved to his bedside. Although Abigail was always tightly in control, Ryan sensed a moment of genuine emotion in her, a deep sadness and sense of loss. Abigail laid her hand on