Chapter 204

• Emma's POV
• When John, and later Leo, told me that Queen Mayham and her Soulless Bleeders were nearby, I thought they meant the pack was already under attack. But I soon realized they were warning me they were close, not here yet.
• The warriors—both vampires and werewolves—were already in position, ready for a fight. Damon stood with them, his sharp eyes scanning the horizon as Leo and I walked outside. Leo stepped forward, addressing the warriors with words meant to inspire confidence. As he continued to speak, a chill ran through me. I felt it. Her presence. Queen Mayham was here.