Energy, it explained, is something to be harnessed. Spirit, while a form of energy, is sentient. It has influence and can morph on its own, which was even more unnerving considering how this book detailed their creation. Aufhockers are believed to have formed from pieces of human souls. Given that information, I was no longer surprised that they did not seem to have a solid form.

Over time, aufhockers seem to have chosen a primary shape, the most common being a large, black dog—or grim—due to its ability to successfully attack its prey. Once a solitary monster, these creatures can move in packs and act more like the vârcolaci—or werewolves—choosing a leader based on a show of their strength and ability. They avoid villages and tend to attack lone travelers.

At least I had been right about one thing: it was unusual for aufhockers to attack crowds, though that did not seem to be the case any longer.

I closed the book, needing to process the information I had discovered, though I had to admit, I was far more intrigued by my new ability and eager to learn if I could take other forms. If the aufhockers attacked again in their menacing grim-like form, could I challenge their leader for control? Could I lead them into battle?

That was potential. That was power.

***

I left the library feeling restless and eager to talk about my findings with Adrian, though I had yet to see him today. Usually, I at least caught a glimpse of him turning a corner, and I wondered if he had left the castle entirely. The fact that I did not know for certain put me on edge, but more than that, his avoidance hurt my feelings—and that frustrated me more.

Perhaps he was investigating Ivka’s death, I rationalized. Or perhaps he had gone in search of the rest of Dracul’s men, whom we all believed to be dead or also stricken with the blood plague.

I found myself in the east wing, walking down the mirrored hall where I killed my father. I did not know why I had come here; perhaps I liked being reminded of the pain because no other hurt compared. Even now, it didn’t feel real, and sometimes I pretended it never happened at all, and that my father still resided in Lara. I pretended that he meant every word he ever spoke—my gem, my treasure, my Issi, you are worth every star in the sky.

I passed into the tower, and I climbed staircase after staircase, ascending in a dizzying spiral to the top of the roof. Memories from my past threaded together in my mind, and I recalled the first time I’d made this journey with Adrian so long ago as Yesenia.

“There aren’t enough stars in your sky,” I had said, staring up into the night.